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Munawar Cheema M, Macakova Kotrbova Z, Hrcka Krausova B, Adla SK, Slavikova B, Chodounska H, Kratochvil M, Vondrasek J, Sedlak D, Balastik M, Kudova E. 5β-reduced neuroactive steroids as modulators of growth and viability of postnatal neurons and glia. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2024; 239:106464. [PMID: 38246201 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2024.106464] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
Endogenous neurosteroids (NS) and their synthetic analogs, neuroactive steroids (NAS), are potentially useful drug-like compounds affecting the pathophysiology of miscellaneous central nervous system disorders (e.g. Alzheimer´s disease, epilepsy, depression, etc.). Additionally, NS have been shown to promote neuron viability and neurite outgrowth upon injury. The molecular, structural and physicochemical basis of the NS effect on neurons is so far not fully understood, and the development of new, biologically relevant assays is essential for their comparative analysis and for assessment of their mechanism of action. Here, we report the development of a novel, plate-based, high-content in vitro assay for screening of NS and newly synthesized, 5β-reduced NAS for the promotion of postnatal neuron survival and neurite growth using fluorescent, postnatal mixed cortical neuron cultures isolated from thy1-YFP transgenic mice. The screen allows a detailed time course analysis of different parameters, such as the number of neurons or neurite lengths of 7-day, in vitro neuron cultures. Using the screen, we identify a new NAS, compound 42, that promotes the survival and growth of postnatal neurons significantly better than several endogenous NS (dehydroepiandrosterone, progesterone, and allopregnanolone). Interestingly, we demonstrate that compound 42 also promotes the proliferation of glia (in particular oligodendrocytes) and that the glial function is critical for its neuron growth support. Computational analysis of the biological data and calculated physicochemical properties of tested NS and NAS demonstrated that their biological activity is proportional to their lipophilicity. Together, the screen proves useful for the selection of neuron-active NAS and the comparative evaluation of their biologically relevant structural and physicochemical features.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Munawar Cheema
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology, Institute of Physiology, Czech Academy of Sciences, Videnska 1083, 14220 Prague 4, Czech Republic
| | - Zuzana Macakova Kotrbova
- CZ-OPENSCREEN: National Infrastructure for Chemical Biology, Institute of Molecular Genetics, Czech Academy of Sciences, Videnska 1083, 14220 Prague 4, Czech Republic
| | - Barbora Hrcka Krausova
- Laboratory of Cellular Neurophysiology, Institute of Physiology, Czech Academy of Sciences, Videnska 1083, 14220 Prague 4, Czech Republic
| | - Santosh Kumar Adla
- Dept. of Neurosteroids, Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo namesti 2, 16610 Prague 6, Czech Republic
| | - Barbora Slavikova
- Dept. of Neurosteroids, Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo namesti 2, 16610 Prague 6, Czech Republic
| | - Hana Chodounska
- Dept. of Neurosteroids, Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo namesti 2, 16610 Prague 6, Czech Republic
| | - Miroslav Kratochvil
- Dept. of Bioinformatics, Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo namesti 2, 16610 Prague 6, Czech Republic
| | - Jiri Vondrasek
- Dept. of Bioinformatics, Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo namesti 2, 16610 Prague 6, Czech Republic
| | - David Sedlak
- CZ-OPENSCREEN: National Infrastructure for Chemical Biology, Institute of Molecular Genetics, Czech Academy of Sciences, Videnska 1083, 14220 Prague 4, Czech Republic
| | - Martin Balastik
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology, Institute of Physiology, Czech Academy of Sciences, Videnska 1083, 14220 Prague 4, Czech Republic.
| | - Eva Kudova
- Dept. of Neurosteroids, Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo namesti 2, 16610 Prague 6, Czech Republic.
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Wang M, Hu S, Fu X, Zhou H, Yang S, Yang C. Neurosteroids: A potential target for neuropsychiatric disorders. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2024; 239:106485. [PMID: 38369032 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2024.106485] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2024] [Revised: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
Neurosteroids are steroids produced by endocrine glands and subsequently entering the brain, and also include steroids synthesis in the brain. It has been widely known that neurosteroids influence many neurological functions, including neuronal signaling, synaptic adaptations, and neuroprotective effects. In addition, abnormality in the synthesis and function of neurosteroids has been closely linked to neuropsychiatric disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), schizophrenia (SZ), and epilepsy. Given their important role in brain pathophysiology and disorders, neurosteroids offer potential therapeutic targets for a variety of neuropsychiatric diseases, and that therapeutic strategies targeting neurosteroids probably exert beneficial effects. We therefore summarized the role of neurosteroids in brain physiology and neuropsychiatric disorders, and introduced the recent findings of synthetic neurosteroid analogues for potential treatment of neuropsychiatric disorders, thereby providing insights for further research in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengyu Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Suwan Hu
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Xinghuo Fu
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Huixuan Zhou
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Siqi Yang
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China.
| | - Chun Yang
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China.
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Branca C, Bortolato M. The role of neuroactive steroids in tic disorders. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2024; 160:105637. [PMID: 38519023 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2024.105637] [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: 12/24/2023] [Revised: 03/03/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/24/2024]
Abstract
Tics are sudden, repetitive movements or vocalizations. Tic disorders, such as Tourette syndrome (TS), are contributed by the interplay of genetic risk factors and environmental variables, leading to abnormalities in the functioning of the cortico-striatal-thalamo-cortical (CSTC) circuitry. Various neurotransmitter systems, such as gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and dopamine, are implicated in the pathophysiology of these disorders. Building on the evidence that tic disorders are predominant in males and exacerbated by stress, emerging research is focusing on the involvement of neuroactive steroids, including dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS) and allopregnanolone, in the ontogeny of tics and other phenotypes associated with TS. Emerging evidence indicates that DHEAS levels are significantly elevated in the plasma of TS-affected boys, and the clinical onset of this disorder coincides with the period of adrenarche, the developmental stage characterized by a surge in DHEAS synthesis. On the other hand, allopregnanolone has garnered particular attention for its potential to mediate the adverse effects of acute stress on the exacerbation of tic severity and frequency. Notably, both neurosteroids act as key modulators of GABA-A receptors, suggesting a pivotal role of these targets in the pathophysiology of various clinical manifestations of tic disorders. This review explores the potential mechanisms by which these and other neuroactive steroids may influence tic disorders and discusses the emerging therapeutic strategies that target neuroactive steroids for the management of tic disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caterina Branca
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Marco Bortolato
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.
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Brunner LM, Riebel M, Wein S, Koller M, Zeman F, Huppertz G, Emmer T, Eberhardt Y, Schwarzbach J, Rupprecht R, Nothdurfter C. The translocator protein 18kDa ligand etifoxine in the treatment of depressive disorders-a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled proof-of-concept study. Trials 2024; 25:274. [PMID: 38650030 PMCID: PMC11034134 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-024-08120-x] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent developments suggest that neurosteroids may achieve rapid antidepressant effects. As such, neurosteroidogenesis mediated by the translocator protein 18 kDa (TSPO) might constitute a promising option for the treatment of depression. Therefore, the current clinical trial aims to get the first evidence of whether TPSO ligands promote rapid antidepressant effects. Furthermore, we study which mechanisms of action, e.g., modulation of distinct neuronal networks, neurosteroidogenesis, endocrinological mechanisms, TSPO expression or microbiome composition, contribute to their putative antidepressant effects. METHODS This is a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind single-center trial of 2-week treatment with the TSPO ligand etifoxine versus placebo in depressive patients. Main eligibility criteria: male or female individuals aged 18 to 65 years with unipolar/bipolar depressive disorder with no other psychiatric main diagnosis or acute neurological/somatic disorder or drug/alcohol dependence during their lifetime. The primary endpoint is the time point at which 50% of the maximal effect has occurred (ET50) estimated by the scores of the Hamilton Depression Scale (HAMD-21). A total of 20 patients per group are needed to detect changes of therapeutic efficacy about 5% and changes of ET50 about 10% with a power of 70%. Assuming a drop-out rate of 10-20%, 50 patients will be randomized in total. The study will be conducted at the Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy of the University of Regensburg. DISCUSSION This study will provide a first proof-of-concept on the potential of the TSPO ligand etifoxine in the treatment of depressive disorders. TRIAL REGISTRATION Clinical Trials Register (EudraCT number: 2021-006773-38 , registration date: 14 September 2022) and German Register of Clinical Studies (DRKS number: DRKS00031099 , registration date: 23 January 2023).
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa-Marie Brunner
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany.
| | - Marco Riebel
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Simon Wein
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Michael Koller
- Center for Clinical Studies, University Hospital of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Florian Zeman
- Center for Clinical Studies, University Hospital of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Gunnar Huppertz
- Center for Clinical Studies, University Hospital of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Tanja Emmer
- Center for Clinical Studies, University Hospital of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Yvonne Eberhardt
- Center for Clinical Studies, University Hospital of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Jens Schwarzbach
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Rainer Rupprecht
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Caroline Nothdurfter
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
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Tateiwa H, Evers AS. Neurosteroids and their potential as a safer class of general anesthetics. J Anesth 2024; 38:261-274. [PMID: 38252143 PMCID: PMC10954990 DOI: 10.1007/s00540-023-03291-4] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/25/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
Neurosteroids (NS) are a class of steroids that are synthesized within the central nervous system (CNS). Various NS can either enhance or inhibit CNS excitability and they play important biological roles in brain development, brain function and as mediators of mood. One class of NS, 3α-hydroxy-pregnane steroids such as allopregnanolone (AlloP) or pregnanolone (Preg), inhibits neuronal excitability; these endogenous NS and their analogues have been therapeutically applied as anti-depressants, anti-epileptics and general anesthetics. While NS have many favorable properties as anesthetics (e.g. rapid onset, rapid recovery, minimal cardiorespiratory depression, neuroprotection), they are not currently in clinical use, largely due to problems with formulation. Recent advances in understanding NS mechanisms of action and improved formulations have rekindled interest in development of NS as sedatives and anesthetics. In this review, the synthesis of NS, and their mechanism of action will be reviewed with specific emphasis on their binding sites and actions on γ-aminobutyric acid type A (GABAA) receptors. The potential advantages of NS analogues as sedative and anesthetic agents will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroki Tateiwa
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Kochi Medical School, Kochi, Japan
| | - Alex S Evers
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine, 660 S Euclid Ave, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA.
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Uusi-Oukari M, Korpi ER. GABAergic mechanisms in alcohol dependence. Int Rev Neurobiol 2024; 175:75-123. [PMID: 38555121 DOI: 10.1016/bs.irn.2024.03.002] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
The target of alcohol's effect on the central nervous system has been sought for more than 50 years in the brain's GABA system. The behavioral and emotional effects of alcohol in humans and rodents are very similar to those of barbiturates and benzodiazepines, and GABAA receptors have been shown to be one of the sites of alcohol action. The mechanisms of GABAergic inhibition have been a hotspot of research but have turned out to be complex and controversial. Genetics support the involvement of some GABAA receptor subunits in the development of alcohol dependence and in alcohol use disorders (AUD). Since the effect of alcohol on the GABAA system resembles that of a GABAergic positive modulator, it may be possible to develop GABAergic drug treatments that could substitute for alcohol. The adaptation mechanisms of the GABA system and the plasticity of the brain are a big challenge for drug development: the drugs that act on GABAA receptors developed so far also may cause adaptation and development of additional addiction. Human polymorphisms should be studied further to get insight about how they affect receptor function, expression or other factors to make reasonable predictions/hypotheses about what non-addictive interventions would help in alcohol dependence and AUD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mikko Uusi-Oukari
- Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Esa R Korpi
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.
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Belelli D, Riva A, Nutt DJ. Reducing the harms of alcohol: nutritional interventions and functional alcohol alternatives. Int Rev Neurobiol 2024; 175:241-276. [PMID: 38555118 DOI: 10.1016/bs.irn.2024.03.001] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
The health risks and harm associated with regular alcohol consumption are well documented. In a recent WHO statement published in The Lancet Public Health alcohol consumption has been estimated to contribute worldwide to 3 million deaths in 2016 while also being responsible for 5·1% of the global burden of disease and injury. The total elimination of alcohol consumption, which has been long imbedded in human culture and society, is not practical and prohibition policies have proved historically ineffective. However, valuable strategies to reduce alcohol harms are already available and improved alternative approaches are currently being developed. Here, we will review and discuss recent advances on two main types of approaches, that is nutritional interventions and functional alcohol alternatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Delia Belelli
- GABALabs Res. Senior Scientific Consultant, United Kingdom
| | - Antonio Riva
- Roger Williams Institute of Hepatology (Foundation for Liver Research), London; Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, London
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Ozcan E, Akduman RC, Eyupoglu S, Bingol A, Balci Ekmekci O, Hatipoglu E. 5 -Alpha-dihydroxyprogesterone may contribute to perceptual processing and attention of the cases with relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis. Neurol Res 2024; 46:132-138. [PMID: 37733038 DOI: 10.1080/01616412.2023.2258040] [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: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023]
Abstract
Neurosteroids (NSs) are endogenous steroid hormones, which are synthesised and metabolised within the central nervous system (CNS). NSs aid myelination and glial differentiation and modulate cognitive functions. Herein, we aim to investigate the relationship between NS levels, 5-alpha-dihydroxyprogesterone (5-α-DHP) and allopregnanolone (ALPG), and their relationship with cognitive changes in relapsing remitting MS patients.A total of 43 cases with well controlled, relapsing remitting MS composed the study group. The control group included 21 age and gender matched healthy controls (HC). MS patients were assessed by calculating Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) scores, and the Brief Repeatable Battery of Neuropsychological Tests (BRBNT) was performed in both MS group and HC. Levels of 5-α-DHP and ALPG levels were also evaluated for each participant.The median level of 5-α-DHP was 48 [IQR: 39.2-144.2] pg/mcgL in the MS group and 68.4 [IQR: 57.1-365.9] pg/mcgL in HC (p = 0.02). The median ALPG level was found to be 56.5 [IQR: 37.7-75.4] pg/mcgL in the MS group and 43.9 [IQR: 29.4-70.2] pg/mcgL in HC (p = 0.1). In both groups 5-α-DHP levels were positively correlated with Symbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT) scores (HC: p = 0.01, r = 0.3 and MS: p = 0.03, r = 0.3). In the MS group, higher EDSS scores were associated with lower scores on Spatial Recall Test (SPART)-Delayed (p = 0.009, r= -0.4) and SDMT (p = 0.01, r= -0.4). The disease duration was negatively correlated with the scores on SPART-Immediate, SPART-Delayed and SDMT (p = 0.02, r= -0.4; p = 0.005, r= -0.4 and p = 0.05, r= -0.3).5-α-DHP may be lower even in well-controlled cases. 5-α-DHP may contribute to better perceptual processing and attention in cases with MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emin Ozcan
- Department of Neurology, Yeditepe University Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | | | - Sevim Eyupoglu
- Department of Psychology, Davranis Degisim Akademisi, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ayhan Bingol
- Department of Psychology, Davranis Degisim Akademisi, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ozlem Balci Ekmekci
- Department of Biochemistry, Istanbul University, Cerrahpasa Medical Faculty, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Esra Hatipoglu
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Health Sciences, Basaksehir Cam and Sakura City Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
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Peltier MR, Verplaetse TL, Altemus M, Zakiniaeiz Y, Ralevski EA, Mineur YS, Gueorguieva R, Picciotto MR, Cosgrove KP, Petrakis I, McKee SA. The role of neurosteroids in posttraumatic stress disorder and alcohol use disorder: A review of 10 years of clinical literature and treatment implications. Front Neuroendocrinol 2024; 73:101119. [PMID: 38184208 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2023.101119] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2023] [Revised: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/31/2023] [Indexed: 01/08/2024]
Abstract
Rates of alcohol use disorder (AUD) are increasing in men and women and there are high rates of concurrent posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and AUD. AUD and PTSD synergistically increase symptomatology and negatively affect treatment outcomes; however, there are very limited pharmacological treatments for PTSD/AUD. Neurosteroids have been implicated in the underlying neurobiological mechanisms of both PTSD and AUD and may be a target for treatment development. This review details the past ten years of research on pregnenolone, progesterone, allopregnanolone, pregnanolone, estradiol, testosterone and dehydroepiandrosterone/dehydroepiandrosterone-sulfate (DHEA/DHEA-S) in the context of PTSD and AUD, including examination of trauma/alcohol-related variables, such as stress-reactivity. Emerging evidence that exogenous pregnenolone, progesterone, and allopregnanolone may be promising, novel interventions is also discussed. Specific emphasis is placed on examining the application of sex as a biological variable in this body of literature, given that women are more susceptible to both PTSD diagnoses and stress-related alcohol consumption.
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Affiliation(s)
- MacKenzie R Peltier
- Yale School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, New Haven, CT 06519, USA; VA Connecticut Healthcare System, Mental Health Service, West Haven, CT 06516, USA; National Center for PTSD, Clinical Neuroscience Division, West Haven, CT 06516, USA.
| | | | - Margaret Altemus
- Yale School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, New Haven, CT 06519, USA; VA Connecticut Healthcare System, Mental Health Service, West Haven, CT 06516, USA
| | - Yasmin Zakiniaeiz
- Yale School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, New Haven, CT 06519, USA
| | - Elizabeth A Ralevski
- Yale School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, New Haven, CT 06519, USA; VA Connecticut Healthcare System, Mental Health Service, West Haven, CT 06516, USA
| | - Yann S Mineur
- Yale School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, New Haven, CT 06519, USA
| | - Ralitza Gueorguieva
- Yale School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, New Haven, CT 06519, USA; Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Marina R Picciotto
- Yale School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, New Haven, CT 06519, USA
| | - Kelly P Cosgrove
- Yale School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, New Haven, CT 06519, USA; National Center for PTSD, Clinical Neuroscience Division, West Haven, CT 06516, USA; Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Ismene Petrakis
- Yale School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, New Haven, CT 06519, USA; VA Connecticut Healthcare System, Mental Health Service, West Haven, CT 06516, USA; National Center for PTSD, Clinical Neuroscience Division, West Haven, CT 06516, USA
| | - Sherry A McKee
- Yale School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, New Haven, CT 06519, USA
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Vallée M. Advances in steroid research from the pioneering neurosteroid concept to metabolomics: New insights into pregnenolone function. Front Neuroendocrinol 2024; 72:101113. [PMID: 37993022 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2023.101113] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2023] [Revised: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023]
Abstract
Advances in neuroendocrinology have led to major discoveries since the 19th century, identifying adaptive loops for maintaining homeostasis. One of the most remarkable discoveries was the concept of neurosteroids, according to which the brain is not only a target but also a source of steroid production. The identification of new membrane steroid targets now underpins the neuromodulatory effects of neurosteroids such as pregnenolone, which is involved in functions mediated by the GPCR CB1 receptor. Structural analysis of steroids is a key feature of their interactions with the phospholipid membrane, receptors and resulting activity. Therefore, mass spectrometry-based methods have been developed to elucidate the metabolic pathways of steroids, the ultimate approach being metabolomics, which allows the identification of a large number of metabolites in a single sample. This approach should enable us to make progress in understanding the role of neurosteroids in the functioning of physiological and pathological processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monique Vallée
- University Bordeaux, INSERM, Neurocentre Magendie, U1215, F-33000 Bordeaux, France.
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Szychowski KA, Skóra B. Involvement of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) in the mechanism of action of elastin-derived peptide (VGVAPG) and its impact on neurosteroidogenesis. Neurochem Int 2023; 171:105615. [PMID: 37769996 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2023.105615] [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: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) is a ligand-activated transcription factor from the family of basic helix-loop-helix transcription factors. Several studies have indicated an important role of AhR signaling pathways in senescence, aging, and neurodegenerative diseases. During aging, elastin is degraded and elastin-derived peptides (EDPs) are formed. EDPs have been detected in human blood, serum, and cerebrospinal fluid. Literature data suggest a role of EDPs in the development of neurodegenerative diseases. However, the impact of EDPs on the AhR signaling pathway has never been investigated. Therefore, the aim of our paper was to study the role of AhR in the mechanism of action of the VGVAPG peptide (one of the EDPs) in mouse primary astrocytes in vitro. Our experiments have shown that AhR plays an important role in the EDP mechanism of action in a model of mouse primary astrocytes. Moreover, due to the involvement of Sirt3, Pparγ, AhR, Glb1, Nf-κb1, Ece1, Ide, and Nepr genes and the production and release of neurosteroids, VGVAPG can accelerate the development of neurodegenerative diseases in which the proper metabolism of astrocytes is crucial. Furthermore, our studies have proved that AhR is likely involved in the co-control of the Sirt1, Glb1, Nf-κb1, Ece1, and Nepr expression in astrocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konrad A Szychowski
- Department of Biotechnology and Cell Biology, Medical College, University of Information Technology and Management in Rzeszow, Sucharskiego 2, 35-225, Rzeszow, Poland.
| | - Bartosz Skóra
- Department of Biotechnology and Cell Biology, Medical College, University of Information Technology and Management in Rzeszow, Sucharskiego 2, 35-225, Rzeszow, Poland
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Oakley J, Hill M, Giess A, Tanguy M, Elgar G. Long read sequencing characterises a novel structural variant, revealing underactive AKR1C1 with overactive AKR1C2 as a possible cause of severe chronic fatigue. J Transl Med 2023; 21:825. [PMID: 37978513 PMCID: PMC10655400 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-023-04711-5] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Causative genetic variants cannot yet be found for many disorders with a clear heritable component, including chronic fatigue disorders like myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS). These conditions may involve genes in difficult-to-align genomic regions that are refractory to short read approaches. Structural variants in these regions can be particularly hard to detect or define with short reads, yet may account for a significant number of cases. Long read sequencing can overcome these difficulties but so far little data is available regarding the specific analytical challenges inherent in such regions, which need to be taken into account to ensure that variants are correctly identified. Research into chronic fatigue disorders faces the additional challenge that the heterogeneous patient populations likely encompass multiple aetiologies with overlapping symptoms, rather than a single disease entity, such that each individual abnormality may lack statistical significance within a larger sample. Better delineation of patient subgroups is needed to target research and treatment. METHODS We use nanopore sequencing in a case of unexplained severe fatigue to identify and fully characterise a large inversion in a highly homologous region spanning the AKR1C gene locus, which was indicated but could not be resolved by short-read sequencing. We then use GC-MS/MS serum steroid analysis to investigate the functional consequences. RESULTS Several commonly used bioinformatics tools are confounded by the homology but a combined approach including visual inspection allows the variant to be accurately resolved. The DNA inversion appears to increase the expression of AKR1C2 while limiting AKR1C1 activity, resulting in a relative increase of inhibitory GABAergic neurosteroids and impaired progesterone metabolism which could suppress neuronal activity and interfere with cellular function in a wide range of tissues. CONCLUSIONS This study provides an example of how long read sequencing can improve diagnostic yield in research and clinical care, and highlights some of the analytical challenges presented by regions containing tandem arrays of genes. It also proposes a novel gene associated with a novel disease aetiology that may be an underlying cause of complex chronic fatigue. It reveals biomarkers that could now be assessed in a larger cohort, potentially identifying a subset of patients who might respond to treatments suggested by the aetiology.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Martin Hill
- Department of Steroids and Proteofactors, Institute of Endocrinology, Národni 8, 11694, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Adam Giess
- Scientific Research and Development, Genomics England, London, UK
| | - Mélanie Tanguy
- Scientific Research and Development, Genomics England, London, UK
| | - Greg Elgar
- Scientific Research and Development, Genomics England, London, UK.
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Wang D, Treede RD, Köhr G. Electrophysiological evidence that TRPM3 is a candidate in latent spinal sensitization of chronic low back pain. Neurosci Lett 2023; 816:137509. [PMID: 37802417 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2023.137509] [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: 08/06/2023] [Revised: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023]
Abstract
Latent spinal sensitization is one key mechanism developing at the early stage of chronic low back pain (LBP). TRPM3-mediated calcium transients of dorsal root ganglia (DRG) neurons are considered critical presynaptic signals involved in this latent sensitization. However, postsynaptic consequences in input laminae of the spinal cord have not been addressed so far. Here, by electrophysiological recordings in acute spinal cord slices from adult rats, we show that perfusion of the TRPM3 agonist pregnenolone sulfate (PregS) induced a significant increase in the frequency but not amplitude of spontaneous postsynaptic currents in lamina I and II neurons. This frequency increase started slowly during PregS perfusion but was reversible following washout. This result is consistent with a presynaptic action of the neurosteroid PregS, indicating the presynaptic expression of functional TRPM3 in the superficial dorsal horn of adult rats. Thus, PregS-induced TRPM3 activation enhances spinal synaptic strength, implying a mediating role of TRPM3 between neuroendocrine and nociceptive signaling, which might as well exist in chronic LBP primed by chronic stress that promotes the biosynthesis of PregS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Drum Tower Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China; Department of Neurophysiology, Mannheim Center for Translational Neurosciences, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Rolf-Detlef Treede
- Department of Neurophysiology, Mannheim Center for Translational Neurosciences, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany; Deptartment of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Georg Köhr
- Department of Neurophysiology, Mannheim Center for Translational Neurosciences, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany; Physiology of Neural Networks, Central Institute of Mental Health, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany.
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Pedraz-Petrozzi B, Lamadé EK, Schneiberg R, Scharnholz B, Vítků J, Hill M, Stárka Ľ, Gilles M, Deuschle M. Reduced urine pregnenolone concentration after clinical response in patients with depression: An open-label short-term prospective study. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2023; 157:106366. [PMID: 37597381 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2023.106366] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2023] [Revised: 08/13/2023] [Accepted: 08/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Identifying biological alterations in patients with depression, particularly those that differ between responders and non-responders, is of interest to clinical practice. Biomarker candidates involve neuroactive steroids, including pregnenolone (PREG) and allopregnanolone (ALLO). However, alterations in PREG and ALLO associated with treatment response are understudied. This study's main aim was to evaluate the effects of antidepressant treatment, clinical response, and treatment duration on PREG and ALLO in depression. MATERIALS AND METHODS In a 4-week, open-label trial, participants were allocated randomly to the venlafaxine (n = 27) or mirtazapine (n = 30) group. Urine concentrations of PREG and ALLO were assessed through gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Participants collected night urine between 10:30 p.m. and 8:00 a.m. Two primary outcomes were analyzed. Firstly, the effect of treatment (mirtazapine or venlafaxine), clinical response (operationalized through the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale), and time (baseline compared to 28 days) on the urine concentrations of PREG or ALLO in depression. Finally, the effect of clinical response and time on the urine concentration of PREG or ALLO, independently of the antidepressant given (mirtazapine or venlafaxine). Linear mixed models were carried out. RESULTS There was no significant difference in PREG and ALLO concentrations between baseline and 28 days in responders and non-responders when investigating the venlafaxine or the mirtazapine group. However, we found a significant reduction of urine PREG concentration after 28 days of treatment in responders who received either venlafaxine or mirtazapine (estimate = -0.56; p = 0.016; 95CI [-1.003; -0.115]; Cohen's d = -0.61). CONCLUSIONS Our main results indicate that responders in depression show reduced urinary PREG concentrations after 4-weeks of therapy, independently of the antidepressant used. More studies are needed to confirm these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno Pedraz-Petrozzi
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health, J5, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, 68159 Mannheim, Germany.
| | - Eva Kathrin Lamadé
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health, J5, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, 68159 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Rebekka Schneiberg
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health, J5, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, 68159 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Barbara Scharnholz
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health, J5, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, 68159 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Jana Vítků
- Department of Steroids and Proteofactors, Institute of Endocrinology, Národni 8, 11694 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Martin Hill
- Department of Steroids and Proteofactors, Institute of Endocrinology, Národni 8, 11694 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Ľuboslav Stárka
- Department of Steroids and Proteofactors, Institute of Endocrinology, Národni 8, 11694 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Maria Gilles
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health, J5, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, 68159 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Michael Deuschle
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health, J5, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, 68159 Mannheim, Germany
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15
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Rupprecht R, Pradhan AK, Kufner M, Brunner LM, Nothdurfter C, Wein S, Schwarzbach J, Puig X, Rupprecht C, Rammes G. Neurosteroids and translocator protein 18 kDa (TSPO) in depression: implications for synaptic plasticity, cognition, and treatment options. Eur Arch Psychiatry Clin Neurosci 2023; 273:1477-1487. [PMID: 36574032 DOI: 10.1007/s00406-022-01532-3] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
There is need for novel fast acting treatment options in affective disorders. 3α-reduced neurosteroids such as allopregnanolone are powerful positive allosteric modulators of GABAA receptors and target also extrasynaptic receptors. Their synthesis is mediated by the translocator protein 18 kDa (TSPO). TSPO ligands not only promote endogenous neurosteroidogenesis, but also exert a broad spectrum of functions involving modulation of mitochondrial activity and acting as anti-inflammatory and neuroregenerative agents. Besides affective symptoms, in depression cognitive impairment can be frequently observed, which may be ameliorated through targeting of extrasynaptic GABAA receptors either via TSPO ligands or exogenously administered 3α-reduced neurosteroids. Interestingly, recent findings indicate an enhanced activation of the complement system, e.g., enhanced expression of C1q, both in depression and dementia. It is of note that benzodiazepines have been shown to reduce long-term potentiation and to cause cognitive decline. Intriguingly, TSPO may be crucial in mediating the effects of benzodiazepines on synaptic pruning. Here, we discuss how benzodiazepines and TSPO may interfere with synaptic pruning. Moreover, we highlight recent developments of TSPO ligands and 3α-reduced neurosteroids as therapeutic agents. Etifoxine is the only clinically available TSPO ligand so far and has been studied in anxiety disorders. Regarding 3α-reduced neurosteroids, brexanolone, an intravenous formulation of allopregnanolone, has been approved for the treatment of postpartum depression and zuranolone, an orally available 3α-reduced neurosteroid, is currently being studied in major depressive disorder and postpartum depression. As such, 3α-reduced neurosteroids and TSPO ligands may constitute promising treatment approaches for affective disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rainer Rupprecht
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Regensburg, Universitätsstrasse 84, 93053, Regensburg, Germany.
| | - Arpit Kumar Pradhan
- Experimental Neuropharmacology, Department of Anesthesiology, Technical University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Marco Kufner
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Regensburg, Universitätsstrasse 84, 93053, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Lisa Marie Brunner
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Regensburg, Universitätsstrasse 84, 93053, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Caroline Nothdurfter
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Regensburg, Universitätsstrasse 84, 93053, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Simon Wein
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Regensburg, Universitätsstrasse 84, 93053, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Jens Schwarzbach
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Regensburg, Universitätsstrasse 84, 93053, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Xenia Puig
- Experimental Neuropharmacology, Department of Anesthesiology, Technical University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Christian Rupprecht
- Experimental Neuropharmacology, Department of Anesthesiology, Technical University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Gerhard Rammes
- Experimental Neuropharmacology, Department of Anesthesiology, Technical University Munich, Munich, Germany
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16
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Walton NL, Antonoudiou P, Maguire JL. Neurosteroid influence on affective tone. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2023; 152:105327. [PMID: 37499891 PMCID: PMC10528596 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2023.105327] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2023] [Revised: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 07/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
Affective disorders such as depression and anxiety are among the most prevalent psychiatric illnesses and causes of disability worldwide. The recent FDA-approval of a novel antidepressant treatment, ZULRESSO® (Brexanolone), a synthetic neurosteroid has fueled interest into the role of neurosteroids in the pathophysiology of depression as well as the mechanisms mediating the antidepressant effects of these compounds. The majority of studies examining the impact of neurosteroids on affective states have relied on the administration of exogenous neurosteroids; however, neurosteroids can also be synthesized endogenously from cholesterol or steroid hormone precursors. Despite the well-established influence of exogenous neurosteroids on affective states, we still lack an understanding of the role of endogenous neurosteroids in modulating affective tone. This review aims to summarize the current literature supporting the influence of neurosteroids on affective states in clinical and preclinical studies, as well as recent evidence suggesting that endogenous neurosteroids may set a baseline affective tone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Najah L Walton
- Program of Neuroscience, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Neuroscience, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Pantelis Antonoudiou
- Program of Neuroscience, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Neuroscience, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jamie L Maguire
- Program of Neuroscience, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Neuroscience, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA.
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17
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Munley KM, Sinkiewicz DM, Szwed SM, Demas GE. Sex and seasonal differences in neural steroid sensitivity predict territorial aggression in Siberian hamsters. Horm Behav 2023; 154:105390. [PMID: 37354601 PMCID: PMC10527453 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2023.105390] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/26/2023]
Abstract
Many animals display marked changes in physiology and behavior on a seasonal timescale, including non-reproductive social behaviors (e.g., aggression). Previous studies from our lab suggest that the pineal hormone melatonin acts via steroid hormones to regulate seasonal aggression in Siberian hamsters (Phodopus sungorus), a species in which both males and females display increased non-breeding aggression. The neural actions of melatonin on steroids and aggressive behavior, however, are relatively unexplored. Here, we housed male and female hamsters in long-day photoperiods (LDs, characteristic of breeding season) or short-day photoperiods (SDs, characteristic of non-breeding season) and administered timed melatonin (M) or control injections. Following 10 weeks of treatment, we quantified aggressive behavior and neural steroid sensitivity by measuring the relative mRNA expression of two steroidogenic enzymes (aromatase and 5α-reductase 3) and estrogen receptor 1 in brain regions associated with aggression or reproduction [medial preoptic area (MPOA), anterior hypothalamus (AH), arcuate nucleus (ARC), and periaqueductal gray (PAG)] via quantitative PCR. Although LD-M and SD males and females displayed increased aggression and similar changes in gene expression in the ARC, there were sex-specific effects of treatment with melatonin and SDs on gene expression in the MPOA, AH, and PAG. Furthermore, males and females exhibited different relationships between neural gene expression and aggression in response to melatonin and SDs. Collectively, these findings support a role for melatonin in regulating seasonal variation in neural steroid sensitivity and aggression and reveal how distinct neuroendocrine responses may modulate a similar behavioral phenotype in male and female hamsters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen M Munley
- Department of Biology, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA; Center for the Integrative Study of Animal Behavior, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA; Department of Psychology, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77204, USA.
| | - David M Sinkiewicz
- Center for the Integrative Study of Animal Behavior, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA
| | - Sydney M Szwed
- Department of Biology, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA
| | - Gregory E Demas
- Department of Biology, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA; Center for the Integrative Study of Animal Behavior, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA
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18
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Walton NL, Antonoudiou P, Barros L, Dargan T, DiLeo A, Evans-Strong A, Gabby J, Howard S, Paracha R, Sánchez EJ, Weiss GL, Kong D, Maguire JL. Impaired Endogenous Neurosteroid Signaling Contributes to Behavioral Deficits Associated With Chronic Stress. Biol Psychiatry 2023; 94:249-261. [PMID: 36736870 PMCID: PMC10363189 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2023.01.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [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: 06/15/2022] [Revised: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic stress is a major risk factor for psychiatric illnesses, including depression. However, the pathophysiological mechanisms whereby stress leads to mood disorders remain unclear. Allopregnanolone acts as a positive allosteric modulator preferentially on δ subunit-containing GABAA (gamma-aminobutyric acid A) receptors. Accumulating clinical and preclinical evidence supports the antidepressant effects of exogenous administration of allopregnanolone analogs; yet, the role of endogenous allopregnanolone in the pathophysiology of depression remains unknown. METHODS We utilized a chronic unpredictable stress (CUS) mouse model, followed by behavioral and biochemical assays, to examine whether altered neurosteroid signaling contributes to behavioral outcomes following CUS. We subsequently performed in vivo CRISPR (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats) knockdown of rate-limiting enzymes involved in allopregnanolone synthesis, 5α-reductase type 1 and 2 (5α1/2), in addition to lentiviral overexpression of 5α1/2 in the basolateral amygdala (BLA) of mice that underwent CUS to assess the impact of 5α1/2 on behavioral outcomes. RESULTS The expression of δ subunit-containing GABAA receptors and endogenous levels of allopregnanolone were reduced in the BLA following CUS. Treatment with an exogenous allopregnanolone analog, SGE-516, was sufficient to increase allopregnanolone levels in the BLA following CUS. Knockdown of 5α1/2 in the BLA mimicked the behavioral outcomes associated with CUS. Conversely, overexpression of 5α1/2 in the BLA improved behavioral outcomes following CUS. CONCLUSIONS Our findings demonstrate that chronic stress impairs endogenous neurosteroid signaling in the BLA, which is sufficient to induce behavioral deficits. Further, these studies suggest that allopregnanolone-based treatments may directly target the underlying pathophysiology of mood disorders suggesting that targeting endogenous neurosteroidogenesis may offer a novel therapeutic strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Najah L Walton
- Department of Neuroscience, Program of Neuroscience, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Pantelis Antonoudiou
- Department of Neuroscience, Program of Neuroscience, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Lea Barros
- Department of Neuroscience, Program of Neuroscience, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts; Building Diversity in Biomedical Sciences Program, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts; Department of Biology, Hamilton College, Clinton, New York
| | - Tauryn Dargan
- Department of Neuroscience, Program of Neuroscience, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Alyssa DiLeo
- Department of Neuroscience, Program of Neuroscience, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Aidan Evans-Strong
- Department of Neuroscience, Program of Neuroscience, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Jenah Gabby
- Department of Neuroscience, Program of Neuroscience, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts; Building Diversity in Biomedical Sciences Program, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts; Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation, Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts
| | - Samantha Howard
- Department of Neuroscience, Program of Neuroscience, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts; Division of Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts; F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Rumzah Paracha
- Department of Neuroscience, Program of Neuroscience, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Edgardo J Sánchez
- Department of Neuroscience, Program of Neuroscience, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts; Building Diversity in Biomedical Sciences Program, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts; Department of Chemistry, University of Puerto Rico, Cayey, Puerto Rico
| | - Grant L Weiss
- Department of Neuroscience, Program of Neuroscience, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Dong Kong
- Department of Neuroscience, Program of Neuroscience, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts; Division of Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts; F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Jamie L Maguire
- Department of Neuroscience, Program of Neuroscience, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts.
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19
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Valerio E, Stocchero M, Pirillo P, D'Errico I, Bonadies L, Galderisi A, Giordano G, Baraldi E. Neurosteroid pathway derangement in asphyctic infants treated with hypothermia: an untargeted metabolomic approach. EBioMedicine 2023; 92:104636. [PMID: 37257315 PMCID: PMC10244906 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2023.104636] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Revised: 04/29/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The pathobiological mechanisms associated with perinatal asphyxia and hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy are complex and poorly understood. The metabolic effects of therapeutic hypothermia have been partially explored. METHODS We conducted a single-center longitudinal study to investigate the metabolic effects of perinatal asphyxia and hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy on the urinary metabolome of a group of 12 asphyctic infants over time compared to 22 matched healthy newborns, using untargeted metabolomics based on mass spectrometry. FINDINGS Over-representation pathway analysis identified the steroidogenesis pathway as being significantly disrupted, with reduced steroid levels in the first three days of life despite treatment with hypothermia. Comparison with matched healthy newborns showed that the urinary steroid content was lower in asphyctic infants before hypothermia. The lysine degradation and carnitine synthesis pathways were also significantly affected. INTERPRETATION Steroidogenesis is significantly disrupted in asphyctic infants compared to healthy newborns. Given how neurosteroids are involved in neuromodulation and neuroprotection, translational research is warranted on the potential role of neurosteroid-based intervention in asphyctic infants. FUNDING None.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enrico Valerio
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Department of Woman's and Child's Health, Azienda Ospedale-Università di Padova, Italy; Institute of Pediatric Research "Città Della Speranza", Padova, Italy
| | - Matteo Stocchero
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Department of Woman's and Child's Health, Azienda Ospedale-Università di Padova, Italy; Institute of Pediatric Research "Città Della Speranza", Padova, Italy
| | - Paola Pirillo
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Department of Woman's and Child's Health, Azienda Ospedale-Università di Padova, Italy; Institute of Pediatric Research "Città Della Speranza", Padova, Italy
| | - Ignazio D'Errico
- Department of Neuroradiology, Azienda Ospedale-Università di Padova, Italy
| | - Luca Bonadies
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Department of Woman's and Child's Health, Azienda Ospedale-Università di Padova, Italy; Institute of Pediatric Research "Città Della Speranza", Padova, Italy
| | - Alfonso Galderisi
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Department of Woman's and Child's Health, Azienda Ospedale-Università di Padova, Italy; Department of Pediatrics, Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
| | - Giuseppe Giordano
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Department of Woman's and Child's Health, Azienda Ospedale-Università di Padova, Italy; Institute of Pediatric Research "Città Della Speranza", Padova, Italy
| | - Eugenio Baraldi
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Department of Woman's and Child's Health, Azienda Ospedale-Università di Padova, Italy; Institute of Pediatric Research "Città Della Speranza", Padova, Italy.
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20
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Luchetti S, Liere P, Pianos A, Verwer RWH, Sluiter A, Huitinga I, Schumacher M, Swaab DF, Mason MRJ. Disease stage-dependent changes in brain levels and neuroprotective effects of neuroactive steroids in Parkinson's disease. Neurobiol Dis 2023:106169. [PMID: 37257664 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2023.106169] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Revised: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuroactive steroids are known neuroprotective agents and neurotransmitter regulators. We previously found that expression of the enzymes synthesizing 5α-dihydroprogesterone (5α-DHP), allopregnanolone (ALLO), and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS) were reduced in the substantia nigra (SN) of Parkinson's Disease (PD) brain. Here, concentrations of a comprehensive panel of steroids were measured in human post-mortem brains of PD patients and controls. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/MS) was used to measure steroid levels in SN (involved in early symptoms) and prefrontal cortex (PFC) (involved later in the disease) of five control (CTR) and nine PD donors, divided into two groups: PD4 (PD-Braak stages 1-4) and PD6 (PD-Braak stages 5-6). In SN, ALLO was increased in PD4 compared to CTR and 5α-DHP and ALLO levels were diminished in PD6 compared to PD4. The ALLO metabolite 3α5α20α-hexahydroprogesterone (3α5α20α-HHP) was higher in PD4 compared to CTR. In PFC, 3α5α20α-HHP was higher in PD4 compared to both CTR and PD6. The effects of 5α-DHP, ALLO and DHEAS were tested on human post-mortem brain slices of patients and controls in culture. RNA expression of genes involved in neuroprotection, neuroinflammation and neurotransmission was analysed after 5 days of incubation with each steroid. In PD6 slices, both 5α-DHP and ALLO induced an increase of the glutamate reuptake effector GLAST1, while 5α-DHP also increased gene expression of the neuroprotective TGFB. In CTR slices, ALLO caused reduced expression of IGF1 and GLS, while DHEAS reduced the expression of p75 and the anti-apoptotic molecule APAF1. Together these data suggest that a potentially protective upregulation of ALLO occurs at early stages of PD, followed by a downregulation of progesterone metabolites at later stages that may exacerbate the pathological changes, especially in SN. Neuroprotective effects of neurosteroids are thus dependent on the neuropathological stage of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabina Luchetti
- Neuropsychiatric Disorders Group, Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience (NIN), Meibergdreef 47, 1105, BA, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Neuroimmunology Research Group, NIN, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Philippe Liere
- U1195 INSERM and University Paris Saclay, Le Kremlin Bicetre, 94276 Paris, France
| | - Antoine Pianos
- U1195 INSERM and University Paris Saclay, Le Kremlin Bicetre, 94276 Paris, France
| | - Ronald W H Verwer
- Neuropsychiatric Disorders Group, Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience (NIN), Meibergdreef 47, 1105, BA, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Arja Sluiter
- Neuropsychiatric Disorders Group, Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience (NIN), Meibergdreef 47, 1105, BA, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Inge Huitinga
- Neuroimmunology Research Group, NIN, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Michael Schumacher
- U1195 INSERM and University Paris Saclay, Le Kremlin Bicetre, 94276 Paris, France
| | - Dick F Swaab
- Neuropsychiatric Disorders Group, Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience (NIN), Meibergdreef 47, 1105, BA, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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21
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Goyette MJ, Murray SL, Saldanha CJ, Holton K. Sex Hormones, Neurosteroids, and Glutamatergic Neurotransmission: A Review of the Literature. Neuroendocrinology 2023; 113:905-914. [PMID: 37232008 DOI: 10.1159/000531148] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Glutamatergic dysfunction has been implicated in the pathophysiology of multiple conditions including epilepsy, chronic pain, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), raising interest in potential ways of modifying glutamate in the nervous system. Emerging research has suggested an interactive effect between sex hormones and glutamatergic neurotransmission. The objective of this paper was to review existing literature on the mechanism of interaction between sex hormones and glutamatergic neurotransmission, as well as to explore what is known about these interactions in various neurological and psychiatric conditions. This paper summarizes knowledge regarding mechanisms for these effects, and glutamatergic response to direct modulation of sex hormones. Research articles were identified via scholarly databases including PubMed, Google Scholar, and ProQuest. Articles were included if they were original research from peer-reviewed academic journals that dealt with glutamate, estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, neurosteroids, glutamate and sex hormone interactions, or the potential impact of glutamate and sex hormone interactions in the following conditions: chronic pain, epilepsy, PTSD, and PMDD. Current evidence suggests that sex hormones can directly modulate glutamatergic neurotransmission, with specific protective effects against excitotoxicity noted for estrogens. An effect of monosodium glutamate consumption on sex hormone levels has also been demonstrated, suggesting a possible bidirectional effect. Overall, there is a good deal of evidence suggesting a role for sex hormones, and specifically for estrogens, in the modulation of glutamatergic neurotransmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meredith J Goyette
- Department of Psychology, American University, Washington, District of Columbia, USA,
| | - Sidney L Murray
- Department of Neuroscience, American University, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Colin J Saldanha
- Department of Neuroscience, American University, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
- Center for Neuroscience and Behavior, American University, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Kathleen Holton
- Department of Neuroscience, American University, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
- Center for Neuroscience and Behavior, American University, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
- Department of Health Studies, American University, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
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22
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Corsi S, Scheggi S, Pardu A, Braccagni G, Caruso D, Cioffi L, Diviccaro S, Gentile M, Fanni S, Stancampiano R, Gambarana C, Melcangi RC, Frau R, Carta M. Pregnenolone for the treatment of L-DOPA-induced dyskinesia in Parkinson's disease. Exp Neurol 2023; 363:114370. [PMID: 36878398 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2023.114370] [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: 09/30/2022] [Revised: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023]
Abstract
Growing preclinical and clinical evidence highlights neurosteroid pathway imbalances in Parkinson's Disease (PD) and L-DOPA-induced dyskinesias (LIDs). We recently reported that 5α-reductase (5AR) inhibitors dampen dyskinesias in parkinsonian rats; however, unraveling which specific neurosteroid mediates this effect is critical to optimize a targeted therapy. Among the 5AR-related neurosteroids, striatal pregnenolone has been shown to be increased in response to 5AR blockade and decreased after 6-OHDA lesions in the rat PD model. Moreover, this neurosteroid rescued psychotic-like phenotypes by exerting marked antidopaminergic activity. In light of this evidence, we investigated whether pregnenolone might dampen the appearance of LIDs in parkinsonian drug-naïve rats. We tested 3 escalating doses of pregnenolone (6, 18, 36 mg/kg) in 6-OHDA-lesioned male rats and compared the behavioral, neurochemical, and molecular outcomes with those induced by the 5AR inhibitor dutasteride, as positive control. The results showed that pregnenolone dose-dependently countered LIDs without affecting L-DOPA-induced motor improvements. Post-mortem analyses revealed that pregnenolone significantly prevented the increase of validated striatal markers of dyskinesias, such as phospho-Thr-34 DARPP-32 and phospho-ERK1/2, as well as D1-D3 receptor co-immunoprecipitation in a fashion similar to dutasteride. Moreover, the antidyskinetic effect of pregnenolone was paralleled by reduced striatal levels of BDNF, a well-established factor associated with the development of LIDs. In support of a direct pregnenolone effect, LC/MS-MS analyses revealed that striatal pregnenolone levels strikingly increased after the exogenous administration, with no significant alterations in downstream metabolites. All these data suggest pregnenolone as a key player in the antidyskinetic properties of 5AR inhibitors and highlight this neurosteroid as an interesting novel tool to target LIDs in PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Corsi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, CA, Italy
| | - Simona Scheggi
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Siena, SI, Italy
| | - Alessandra Pardu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, CA, Italy
| | - Giulia Braccagni
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Siena, SI, Italy
| | - Donatella Caruso
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, MI, Italy
| | - Lucia Cioffi
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, MI, Italy
| | - Silvia Diviccaro
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, MI, Italy
| | - Mauro Gentile
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, CA, Italy
| | - Silvia Fanni
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, CA, Italy; Basal Ganglia Pathophysiology Unit, Department Experimental Medical Science, Lund University, Sweden
| | | | - Carla Gambarana
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Siena, SI, Italy
| | - Roberto Cosimo Melcangi
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, MI, Italy
| | - Roberto Frau
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, CA, Italy; "Guy Everett Laboratory", Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy.
| | - Manolo Carta
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, CA, Italy.
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23
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Chern CR, Lauková M, Schonwald A, Kudová E, Chodounská H, Chern CJ, Shakarjian MP, Velíšková J, Velíšek L. Novel neurosteroid pregnanolone pyroglutamate suppresses neurotoxicity syndrome induced by tetramethylenedisulfotetramine but is ineffective in a rodent model of infantile spasms. Pharmacol Rep 2023; 75:177-188. [PMID: 36422805 PMCID: PMC10785007 DOI: 10.1007/s43440-022-00437-1] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2022] [Revised: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neurosteroids are investigated as effective antidotes for the poisoning induced by tetramethylenedisulfotetramine (TMDT) as well as treatments for epileptic spasms during infancy. Both these conditions are quite resistant to pharmacotherapy; thus, a search for new treatments is warranted. METHODS In this study, we determined the efficacy of two novel neurosteroids, pregnanolone glutamate (PAG) and pregnanolone pyroglutamate (PPG), and tested these drugs in doses of 1-10 mg/kg (ip) against the TMDT syndrome and in our rodent model of infantile spasms. RESULTS Only PPG in doses 5 and 10 mg/kg suppressed the severity of the TMDT syndrome and TMDT-induced lethality, while the 1 mg/kg dose was without an effect. Interestingly, the 1 mg/kg dose of PPG in combination with 1 mg/kg of diazepam was also effective against TMDT poisoning. Neither PAG nor PPG were effective against experimental spasms in the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA)-triggered model of infantile spasms. CONCLUSIONS While evidence suggests that PAG can act through multiple actions which include allosteric inhibition of NMDA-induced and glycine receptor-evoked currents as well as augmentation of ɣ-aminobutyric acid subtype A (GABAA) receptor-induced currents, the agent appears to neither have the appropriate mechanistic signature for activity in the infantile spasm model, nor the adequate potency, relative to PPG, for ameliorating the TMDT syndrome. The full mechanisms of action of PPG, which may become a potent TMDT antidote either alone or in combination with diazepam are yet unknown and thus require further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chian-Ru Chern
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, USA
| | - Marcela Lauková
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, USA
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology, Biomedical Research Center of the Slovak Academy of Science, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Antonia Schonwald
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, USA
| | - Eva Kudová
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Hana Chodounská
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Chian-Jiang Chern
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, USA
| | - Michael P Shakarjian
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, USA
- Department of Public Health, Environmental Health Science Program, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Rutgers-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, 675 Hoes Ln W, Piscataway, NJ, 08854, USA
| | - Jana Velíšková
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, USA
- Department of Neurology, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, USA
| | - Libor Velíšek
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, USA.
- Department of Neurology, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, USA.
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24
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Jorratt P, Ricny J, Leibold C, Ovsepian SV. Endogenous Modulators of NMDA Receptor Control Dendritic Field Expansion of Cortical Neurons. Mol Neurobiol 2023; 60:1440-1452. [PMID: 36462136 PMCID: PMC9899188 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-022-03147-0] [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] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
Impairments of N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) activity have been implicated in several neuropsychiatric disorders, with pharmacological inhibition of NMDAR-mediated currents and associated neurobehavioral changes considered as a model of schizophrenia. We analyzed the effects of brief and long-term exposure of rat cortical cultures to the most prevalent endogenous modulators of NMDAR (kynurenic acid, pregnenolone sulfate, spermidine, and zinc) on neuronal viability, stimulation-induced release of glutamate, and dendritic morphology with synaptic density. Both, glutamate release and neuronal viability studies revealed no difference between the test and control groups. No differences were also observed in the number of dendritic branching and length, or density of synaptic connections and neuronal soma size. Comparison of the extent of dendritic projections and branching patterns, however, revealed enhanced distal arborization with the expansion of the dendritic area under prolonged treatment of cultures with physiological concentrations of NMDAR modulators, with differences reaching significance in spermidine and pregnenolone sulfate tests. Measurements of the density of glutamatergic synapses showed consistency across all neuronal groups, except those treated with pregnenolone sulfate, which showed a reduction of PSD-95-positive elements. Overall, our data suggest that constitutive glutamatergic activity mediated by NMDAR controls the dendritic field expansion and can influence the integrative properties of cortical neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pascal Jorratt
- grid.447902.cNational Institute of Mental Health, Klecany, Czech Republic ,grid.4491.80000 0004 1937 116XThird Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Jan Ricny
- grid.447902.cNational Institute of Mental Health, Klecany, Czech Republic
| | - Christian Leibold
- grid.5963.9Faculty of Biology and Bernstein Center Freiburg, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Saak V. Ovsepian
- grid.36316.310000 0001 0806 5472Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Greenwich London, Chatham Maritime, Kent, ME4 4TB UK
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25
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Matrisciano F, Pinna G. The Strategy of Targeting Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor (PPAR) in the Treatment of Neuropsychiatric Disorders. Adv Exp Med Biol 2023; 1411:513-535. [PMID: 36949324 DOI: 10.1007/978-981-19-7376-5_22] [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] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/24/2023]
Abstract
Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) are nonsteroid nuclear receptors and transcription factors that regulate several neuroinflammatory and metabolic processes, recently involved in several neuropsychiatric conditions, including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, major depressive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), schizophrenia spectrum disorders, and autism spectrum disorders. PPARs are ligand-activated receptors that, following stimulation, induce neuroprotective effects by decreasing neuroinflammatory processes through inhibition of the nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cell (NF-κB) expression and consequent suppression of pro-inflammatory cytokine production. PPARs heterodimerize with the retinoid X-receptor (RXR) and bind to PPAR-responsive regulatory elements (PPRE) in the promoter region of target genes involved in lipid metabolism, synthesis of cholesterol, catabolism of amino acids, and inflammation. Interestingly, PPARs are considered functionally part of the extended endocannabinoid (eCB) system that includes the classic eCB, anandamide, which act at cannabinoid receptor types 1 (CB1) and 2 (CB2) and are implicated in the pathophysiology of stress-related neuropsychiatric disorders. In preclinical studies, PPAR stimulation improves anxiety and depression-like behaviors by enhancing neurosteroid biosynthesis. The peculiar functional role of PPARs by exerting anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects and their expression localization in neurons and glial cells of corticolimbic circuits make them particularly interesting as novel therapeutic targets for several neuropsychiatric disorders characterized by underlying neuroinflammatory/neurodegenerative mechanisms. Herein, we discuss the pathological hallmarks of neuropsychiatric conditions associated with neuroinflammation, as well as the pivotal role of PPARs with a special emphasis on the subtype alpha (PPAR-α) as a suitable molecular target for therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Matrisciano
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, The Psychiatric Institute, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Graziano Pinna
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, The Psychiatric Institute, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA.
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26
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Dembek K, Timko K, Moore C, Johnson L, Frazer M, Barr B, Toribio R. Longitudinal assessment of adrenocortical steroid and steroid precursor response to illness in hospitalized foals. Domest Anim Endocrinol 2023; 82:106764. [PMID: 36162341 DOI: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2022.106764] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Revised: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
Sepsis is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in neonatal foals. Relative adrenal insufficiency (RAI), defined as an inadequate cortisol response to stress, has been associated with sepsis, prematurity, and poor outcome in newborn foals. In addition to cortisol, the adrenal gland synthesizes several biologically important steroids and steroid precursors, including aldosterone, androgens, and progestogens. However, concentration of these hormones during hospitalization and their association with the severity of disease and mortality in critically ill foals have not been completely evaluated. We hypothesized, that in addition to cortisol and aldosterone, concentration of steroid precursors (progestogens and androgens) will be altered in critically ill foals. We also proposed that septic foals will have higher concentrations of steroid precursors than healthy foals, and steroid concentrations will be persistently increased during hospitalization in non-surviving septic and premature foals. Foals <4 days of age were categorized as healthy, septic, sick non-septic, and premature based on physical exam, medical history, and laboratory data. Blood samples were collected on admission (0 h), 24 h, and 72 h after admission. Concentrations of steroids and ACTH were measured by immunoassays. The area under the curve over 72 h (AUC0-72h) of hospitalization was calculated for each hormone. Serum cortisol, aldosterone, progesterone, pregnenolone, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS), and 17 α-hydroxyprogesterone concentrations were higher in septic and premature foals compared to healthy foals at 0 h and throughout 72 h of hospitalization (P < 0.05). Plasma ACTH concentrations were higher in septic and premature foals on admission compared to healthy controls (P < 0.05). The progesterone (AUC0-72h) cut-off value above which non-survival could be reliably predicted in hospitalized foals was 1,085 ng/mL/h, with 82% sensitivity and 77% specificity. Critically ill neonatal foals had an appropriate response to stress characterized by increased concentrations of cortisol and steroid precursors on admission. A rapid decline in steroid concentration was observed in healthy foals. However, persistently elevated progestogen and androgen concentrations were associated with a lack of improvement in the course of disease and poor outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Dembek
- College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA.
| | - K Timko
- College of Veterinary Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - C Moore
- Jacksonville Equine Associates, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | - L Johnson
- Fairfield Equine Associates, Newtown, CT, USA
| | - M Frazer
- Hagyard Equine Medical Institute, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - B Barr
- Rood and Riddle Equine Hospital, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - R Toribio
- College of Veterinary Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
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27
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Abstract
Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) or depression is a pathological mental condition affecting millions of people worldwide. Identification of objective biological markers of depression can provide for a better diagnostic and intervention criteria; ultimately aiding to reduce its socioeconomic health burden. This review provides a comprehensive insight into the major biomarker candidates that have been implicated in depression neurobiology. The key biomarker categories are covered across all the "omics" levels. At the epigenomic level, DNA-methylation, non-coding RNA and histone-modifications have been discussed in relation to depression. The proteomics system shows great promise with inflammatory markers as well as growth factors and neurobiological alterations within the endocannabinoid system. Characteristic lipids implicated in depression together with the endocrine system are reviewed under the metabolomics section. The chapter also examines the novel biomarkers for depression that have been proposed by studies in the microbiome. Depression affects individuals differentially and explicit biomarkers identified by robust research criteria may pave the way for better diagnosis, intervention, treatment, and prediction of treatment response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shayam Suseelan
- The Psychiatric Institute, Department of Psychiatry, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Graziano Pinna
- The Psychiatric Institute, Department of Psychiatry, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States; UI Center on Depression and Resilience (UICDR), Department of Psychiatry, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States; Center for Alcohol Research in Epigenetics, Department of Psychiatry, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States.
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28
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Gatta E, Camussi D, Auta J, Guidotti A, Pandey SC. Neurosteroids (allopregnanolone) and alcohol use disorder: From mechanisms to potential pharmacotherapy. Pharmacol Ther 2022; 240:108299. [PMID: 36323379 PMCID: PMC9810076 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2022.108299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [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: 06/09/2022] [Revised: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) is a multifaceted relapsing disorder that is commonly comorbid with psychiatric disorders, including anxiety. Alcohol exposure produces a plethora of effects on neurobiology. Currently, therapeutic strategies are limited, and only a few treatments - disulfiram, acamprosate, and naltrexone - are available. Given the complexity of this disorder, there is a great need for the identification of novel targets to develop new pharmacotherapy. The GABAergic system, the primary inhibitory system in the brain, is one of the well-known targets for alcohol and is responsible for the anxiolytic effects of alcohol. Interestingly, GABAergic neurotransmission is fine-tuned by neuroactive steroids that exert a regulatory role on several endocrine systems involved in neuropsychiatric disorders including AUD. Mounting evidence indicates that alcohol alters the biosynthesis of neurosteroids, whereas acute alcohol increases and chronic alcohol decreases allopregnanolone levels. Our recent work highlighted that chronic alcohol-induced changes in neurosteroid levels are mediated by epigenetic modifications, e.g., DNA methylation, affecting key enzymes involved in neurosteroid biosynthesis. These changes were associated with changes in GABAA receptor subunit expression, suggesting an imbalance between excitatory and inhibitory signaling in AUD. This review will recapitulate the role of neurosteroids in the regulation of the neuroendocrine system, highlight their role in the observed allostatic load in AUD, and develop a framework from mechanisms to potential pharmacotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleonora Gatta
- Center for Alcohol Research in Epigenetics, Department of Psychiatry, Psychiatric Institute, University of Illinois at Chicago, USA
| | - Diletta Camussi
- Center for Alcohol Research in Epigenetics, Department of Psychiatry, Psychiatric Institute, University of Illinois at Chicago, USA
| | - James Auta
- Center for Alcohol Research in Epigenetics, Department of Psychiatry, Psychiatric Institute, University of Illinois at Chicago, USA
| | - Alessandro Guidotti
- Center for Alcohol Research in Epigenetics, Department of Psychiatry, Psychiatric Institute, University of Illinois at Chicago, USA
| | - Subhash C Pandey
- Center for Alcohol Research in Epigenetics, Department of Psychiatry, Psychiatric Institute, University of Illinois at Chicago, USA; Jesse Brown Veterans Affairs Medical Center Chicago, IL 60612, USA.
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29
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Hernandez GD, Brinton RD. Allopregnanolone: Regenerative therapeutic to restore neurological health. Neurobiol Stress 2022; 21:100502. [PMID: 36532370 PMCID: PMC9755066 DOI: 10.1016/j.ynstr.2022.100502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2022] [Revised: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic stress has been proposed as a driver of altered brain structure and function, including the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases and a driver of disease progression. A key outcome of stress in the brain is structural remodeling of neural architecture, which may be a sign of successful adaptation, whereas persistence of these changes when stress ends indicate failed resilience. Neuroendocrine homeostasis and stress response are mainly dependent upon the functioning of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. Neurosteroids will fluctuate depending on whether the stress is acute or chronic. Advancements in neurosteroid research have led to the identification of multiple targets for drug development, but the most promising innovative target may be neurogenesis, given its potential impact in neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer's disease. Allopregnanolone is an endogenous pregnane neurosteroid and a reduced metabolite of progesterone, which acts as a potent allosteric modulator and direct activator of the GABA-chloride channel complex. Perhaps the most intriguing finding related to the potential therapeutic effects of allopregnanolone is its potential to promote neuroregeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerson D. Hernandez
- Center for Innovation in Brain Science, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Roberta D. Brinton
- Center for Innovation in Brain Science, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
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30
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Novick AM, Duffy KA, Johnson RL, Sammel MD, Cao W, Strasser AA, Sofuoglu M, Kuzma A, Loughead J, Morrow AL, Epperson CN. Effect of progesterone administration in male and female smokers on nicotine withdrawal and neural response to smoking cues: role of progesterone conversion to allopregnanolone. Biol Sex Differ 2022; 13:60. [PMID: 36274158 PMCID: PMC9590190 DOI: 10.1186/s13293-022-00472-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Progesterone administration has therapeutic effects in tobacco use disorder (TUD), with females benefiting more than males. Conversion of progesterone to the neurosteroid allopregnanolone is hypothesized to partly underlie the therapeutic effects of progesterone; however, this has not been investigated clinically. METHODS Smokers (n = 18 males, n = 21 females) participated in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover study of 200 mg progesterone daily across 4 days of abstinence. The ratio of allopregnanolone:progesterone was analyzed in relationship to nicotine withdrawal, smoking urges, mood states, subjective nicotine effects, and neural response to smoking cues. RESULTS Allopregnanolone:progesterone ratio interacted with sex to predict withdrawal symptoms (p = 0.047), such that females with higher allopregnanolone:progesterone ratios reported lower withdrawal severity (b = - 0.98 [- 1.95, - 0.01]; p = 0.048). In addition, allopregnanolone:progesterone ratio interacted with sex to predict confusion (p = 0.014) and fatigue (p = 0.034), such that females with higher allopregnanolone:progesterone ratios reported less confusion (b = - 0.45 [- 0.78, - 0.12]; p = 0.008) and marginally lower fatigue (b = - 0.50 [- 1.03, 0.02]; p = 0.062. Irrespective of sex, higher ratios of allopregnanolone:progesterone were associated with stronger "good effects" of nicotine (b = 8.39 [2.58, 14.20]); p = 0.005) and weaker "bad effects" of nicotine (b = - 7.13 [- 13.53, - 0.73]; p = 0.029). CONCLUSIONS Conversion of progesterone to allopregnanolone correlated with smoking-related outcomes in both sex-dependent and sex-independent ways. Sex-dependent effects suggest that conversion of progesterone to allopregnanolone may contribute to greater therapeutic benefits in females but not males with TUD. Trial registration Clinicaltrials.gov registration, retrospectively registered: NCT01954966; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01954966 \.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew M Novick
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of CO-Anschutz Medical Campus, 13001 E 17th Pl, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA.
| | - Korrina A Duffy
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of CO-Anschutz Medical Campus, 13001 E 17th Pl, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Rachel L Johnson
- Department of Biostatistics and Informatics, Colorado School of Public Health, University of CO-Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Mary D Sammel
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of CO-Anschutz Medical Campus, 13001 E 17th Pl, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
- Department of Biostatistics and Informatics, Colorado School of Public Health, University of CO-Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Wen Cao
- Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Andrew A Strasser
- Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Mehmet Sofuoglu
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, 06511, USA
| | - Alexandra Kuzma
- Larner College of Medicine, University of Vermont, Burlington, VM, 05405, USA
| | - James Loughead
- Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - A Leslie Morrow
- Departments of Psychiatry and Pharmacology and the Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, 27514, USA
| | - C Neill Epperson
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of CO-Anschutz Medical Campus, 13001 E 17th Pl, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
- Department of Family Medicine, School of Medicine, University of CO-Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
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31
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Singh RK, Singh R, Stewart A, Van Poppel K, Klinger S, Hulihan J, Van Heusen H, Vaitkevicius H, Gasior M. Intravenous ganaxolone in pediatric super-refractory status epilepticus: A single hospital experience. Epilepsy Behav Rep 2022; 20:100567. [PMID: 36325100 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebr.2022.100567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [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: 06/13/2022] [Revised: 08/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Synaptic GABAA receptor (GABAAR) internalization contributes to the drug resistant nature of super-refractory status epilepticus (SRSE). Ganaxolone is a 3β-methylated synthetic analog of the endogenous neuroactive steroid, allopregnanolone, that has positive allosteric modulatory activity on synaptic and extrasynaptic GABAA receptors. Ganaxolone is currently in clinical trials to treat rare pediatric seizure disorders and established and refractory SE. Two pediatric patients with SRSE (age 17 and age 7) were treated under emergency investigational new drug (E-IND) applications with intravenous (IV) ganaxolone administered as an initial bolus and a maintenance infusion for up to 4.5 days with intermittent IV boluses as-needed followed by taper on day 5 and transitioned to chronic treatment using ganaxolone suspension. Adjunctive ganaxolone was effective in terminating SRSE in both patients, safely permitting IV anesthetics to be weaned. Seizure control has been maintained after transitioning to enteric ganaxolone. Further investigation of ganaxolone as a safe and effective treatment for SRSE is warranted.
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Key Words
- AMPA, alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazoleproprionic acid
- ASMs, anti-seizure medications
- E-IND, emergency investigational new drug
- FIRES, fever-induced refractory epilepsy syndrome
- GABAAR, GABAA receptors
- GNX, ganaxolone
- KA, kainate
- NMDA, N-methyl-d-aspartate
- NORSE, new onset refractory status epilepticus
- Neurosteroids
- Pediatric
- SE, status epilepticus
- SRSE, super-refractory status epilepticus
- Status epilepticus
- Super-refractory status epilepticus
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Nasre-Nasser RG, Severo MMR, Pires GN, Hort MA, Arbo BD. Effects of Progesterone on Preclinical Animal Models of Traumatic Brain Injury: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Mol Neurobiol 2022; 59:6341-6362. [PMID: 35922729 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-022-02970-9] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
Since the publication of two phase III clinical trials not supporting the use of progesterone in patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI), several possible explanations have been postulated, including limitations in the analysis of results from preclinical evidence. Therefore, to address this question, a systematic review and meta-analysis was performed to evaluate the effects of progesterone as a neuroprotective agent in preclinical animal models of TBI. A total of 48 studies were included for review: 29 evaluated brain edema, 21 evaluated lesion size, and 0 studies reported the survival rate. In the meta-analysis, it was found that progesterone reduced brain edema (effect size - 1.73 [- 2.02, - 1.44], p < 0.0001) and lesion volume (effect size - 0.40 [- 0.65, - 0.14], p = 0.002). Lack of details in the studies hindered the assessment of risk of bias (through the SYRCLE tool). A funnel plot asymmetry was detected, suggesting a possible publication bias. In conclusion, preclinical studies show that progesterone has an anti-edema effect in animal models of TBI, decreasing lesion volume or increasing remaining tissue. However, more studies are needed using assessing methods with lower risk of histological artifacts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raif Gregorio Nasre-Nasser
- Programa de Pós-Graduação Em Ciências Fisiológicas, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande (FURG), Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Maria Manoela Rezende Severo
- Departamento de Farmacologia, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande Do Sul (UFRGS), Rua Ramiro Barcelos 2600, Building UFRGS 21116, Room 430, Zip code, Porto Alegre - RS, 90035-003, Brazil
| | - Gabriel Natan Pires
- Departamento de Psicobiologia, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, Brazil
- Brazilian Reproducibility Initiative in Preclinical Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (BRISA), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Mariana Appel Hort
- Programa de Pós-Graduação Em Ciências Fisiológicas, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande (FURG), Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Bruno Dutra Arbo
- Programa de Pós-Graduação Em Ciências Fisiológicas, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande (FURG), Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.
- Departamento de Farmacologia, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande Do Sul (UFRGS), Rua Ramiro Barcelos 2600, Building UFRGS 21116, Room 430, Zip code, Porto Alegre - RS, 90035-003, Brazil.
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33
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Hatipoglu E, Hacioglu Y, Polat Y, Arslan HF, Oner S, Ekmekci OB, Niyazoglu M. Do neurosteroids have impact on depression and cognitive functions in cases with acromegaly? Growth Horm IGF Res 2022; 66:101496. [PMID: 35952406 DOI: 10.1016/j.ghir.2022.101496] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Revised: 07/23/2022] [Accepted: 07/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Neurosteroids (NSs) are a distinct hormone group and, they are known for their contribution into the status of mood and cognitive functions. Whether they are also involved in the mood disturbances and cognition in acromegaly is not known. Herein we aimed to evaluate the relation of mood status and cognitive functions with the NS levels in cases with acromegaly. DESIGN A total of 33 cases with acromegaly composed the acromegaly group (AG) and, 30 age and gender-matched cases without acromegaly composed the control group (CG). The levels of Allopregnanolone (AP), pregnenolone (PRG), 24S-hydroxycholesterol (24OHC), dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS), androsterone (ADT), GH and IGF-1 were measured in each group. Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) was used to assess depressive symptoms, whereas an extensive neuropsychological assessment with several neurocognitive tests were carried out for each subject by an experienced psychologist. RESULTS Cases with acromegaly had lower 24OHC and DHEA levels (p = 0.002 and p = 0.007, respectively) in comparison to CG. Of the cognitive functions time to complete 1 s Series was significantly higher and, the scores on Switching Verbal Fluency Test, Boston Naming Test (BNT)-semantic and BNT-phonological, the highest learning point of Oktem Verbal Memory Processes Test (VMPT) were significantly lower in cases with acromegaly in comparison to those in controls (p = 0.004, p = 0.01, p < 0.001, p = 0.02 and p = 0.05, respectively). KAS-perseveration errors were higher in CG (p = 0.03). In AG the levels of AP were negatively correlated with the scores on Months backward Test (MBT), Animal Naming Test, Construction, BNT-spontaneous and positively correlated with BNT-incorrect answers; PRG was positively correlated with VMPT-retention scores, ADT was negatively correlated with MBT and 3 s Series scores, DHEAS was positively correlated with VMPT-the highest learning point whereas it was negatively correlated with MBT scores. Additionally, the scores on BDI were positively correlated with DHEA levels in AG. CONCLUSION Cognitive changes may be encountered in acromegaly and, neurosteroids may contribute to the changes in certain cognitive functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esra Hatipoglu
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Health Sciences, Basaksehir Cam and Sakura City Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey.
| | - Yalcin Hacioglu
- Division of Family Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Ministry of Health's Istanbul Education and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Yeliz Polat
- Department of Psychology, Ministry of Health's Istanbul Education and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Hilmi Furkan Arslan
- Department of Biochemistry, Ministry of Health's Istanbul Education and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Sena Oner
- Department of Biochemistry, Cerrahpasa University, Cerrahpasa Medical Faculty, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ozlem Balci Ekmekci
- Department of Biochemistry, Cerrahpasa University, Cerrahpasa Medical Faculty, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Mutlu Niyazoglu
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Health Sciences, Basaksehir Cam and Sakura City Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
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Chik MW, Hazalin NAMN, Singh GKS. Regulation of phase I and phase II neurosteroid enzymes in the hippocampus of an Alzheimer's disease rat model: A focus on sulphotransferases and UDP-glucuronosyltransferases. Steroids 2022; 184:109035. [PMID: 35405201 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2022.109035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [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: 08/09/2021] [Revised: 03/27/2022] [Accepted: 04/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Neurosteroids have been associated with neurodegenerative diseases because they are involved in the modulation of neurotransmitter, neurotropic and neuroprotective actions. Emerging evidence suggests that the enzymes responsible for the synthesis of neurosteroids change during the progression of Alzheimer's disease (AD). The present study aimed to assess the changes in phase I and II enzymes involved in the metabolism of neurosteroids of the progestogen, androgenic and estrogenic steroidogenic pathways and the possibility that the neurosteroids are actively converted into the most abundant metabolites (i.e. glucuronides and sulphates). The gene expression for the phase I and II neurosteroid biosynthetic enzymes were studied in the hippocampus of streptozotocin AD rat model. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into control, sham (saline injected into the hippocampus) and 3 and 12 weeks post-STZ administration (STZ-G3w and STZ-G12w, respectively) groups. Behavioral assessments showed memory impairment in both STZ-injected groups, whereas the formation of amyloid-beta was more pronounced in the STZ-12w group. Gene expression of the hippocampus revealed that glucuronidation and sulphation enzymes transcript of the phase I metabolites were upregulated at the late stage of the disease progression (Hsd17b10, Hsd3b1, Akr1c3 and Cyp19a1) except for Sts. The phase II Sult and Ugt enzymes were mostly upregulated in the STZ-G12w rats (Sult1a1, Sult1e1, Ugt1a1, Ugt1a7c, Ugt1a6, Ugt2b35 and Ugt2b17) and normally expressed in the STZ-G3w group (Sult2a2, Sult2a6, Sult2b1, Ugt2b7, Sult4a1 and Ugt1a7c). In conclusion, changes occur in the phase I and II enzymes transcript of the progestogen, androgenic and estrogenic steroidogenic pathways during the progression of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mazzura Wan Chik
- Department of Pharmaceutical Life Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), Selangor Branch, Puncak Alam Campus, 42300 Bandar Puncak Alam, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Nurul Aqmar Mohd Nor Hazalin
- Department of Pharmaceutical Life Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), Selangor Branch, Puncak Alam Campus, 42300 Bandar Puncak Alam, Selangor, Malaysia; Integrative Pharmacogenomics Institute (iPROMiSE), Level 7, FF3, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Selangor Branch, Puncak Alam Campus, 42300 Bandar Puncak Alam, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Gurmeet Kaur Surindar Singh
- Department of Pharmaceutical Life Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), Selangor Branch, Puncak Alam Campus, 42300 Bandar Puncak Alam, Selangor, Malaysia; Brain Degeneration and Therapeutics Group, Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), 40450 Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia.
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35
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Rasmusson AM, Novikov O, Brown KD, Pinna G, Pineles SL. Pleiotropic endophenotypic and phenotype effects of GABAergic neurosteroid synthesis deficiency in posttraumatic stress disorder. Curr Opin Endocr Metab Res 2022; 25:100359. [PMID: 36909842 PMCID: PMC10004350 DOI: 10.1016/j.coemr.2022.100359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PTSD is associated with deficits in synthesis of progesterone metabolites such as allopregnanolone and pregnanolone that potently facilitate gamma-amino-butyric acid (GABA) effects at GABAA receptors. These neurosteroids modulate neuronal firing rate, regional brain connectivity, and activation of amygdala-mediated autonomic nervous system, hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, and behavioral reactions to unconditioned and conditioned threat. They also play critical roles in learning and memory processes such as extinction and extinction retention and inhibit toll-like receptor activation of intracellular pro-inflammatory pathways. Deficient synthesis of these neurosteroids thus may contribute to individually variable PTSD clinical phenotypes encompassing symptom severity, capacity for PTSD recovery, and vulnerability to common PTSD-comorbidities such as major depression, chronic pain, alcohol and nicotine dependence, cardiovascular disease, metabolic syndrome, reproductive disorders, and autoimmune conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann M Rasmusson
- VA National Center for PTSD, Women's Health Science Division, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA 02130, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, 02118, USA
| | - Olga Novikov
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, 02118, USA.,Boston University School of Medicine, Psychiatry Residency Program, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Kayla D Brown
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, 02118, USA.,Behavioral Neurosciences Ph.D. Program, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, 02118, USA
| | - Graziano Pinna
- The Psychiatric Institute, Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60612, USA
| | - Suzanne L Pineles
- VA National Center for PTSD, Women's Health Science Division, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA 02130, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, 02118, USA
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36
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Das R, Ragagnin G, Sjöstedt J, Johansson M, Haage D, Druzin M, Johansson S, Bäckström T. Medroxyprogesterone acetate positively modulates specific GABA A-receptor subtypes - affecting memory and cognition. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2022; 141:105754. [PMID: 35395561 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2022.105754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [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] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Revised: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) is a progestin widely used in humans as hormone replacement therapy and at other indications. Many progestin metabolites, as the progesterone metabolite allopregnanolone, have GABAA-receptor modulatory effects and are known to affect memory, learning, appetite, and mood. In women, 4 years chronic treatment with MPA doubles the frequency of dementia and in rats, MPA causes cognitive impairment related to the GABAergic system. Activation of the membrane bound GABAA receptor results in a chloride ion flux that can be studied by whole-cell patch-clamp electrophysiological recordings. The purpose of this study was to clarify the modulatory effects of MPA and specific MPA metabolites, with structures like known GABAA-receptor modulators, on different GABAA-receptor subtypes. An additional aim was to verify the results as steroid effects on GABA response in single cells taken from rat hypothalamus. HEK-293 cell-lines permanently expressing the recombinant human GABAA-receptor subtype α1β2γ2L or α5β3γ2L or α2β3γ2S were created. The MPA metabolites 3α5α-MPA,3β5α-MPA and 3β5β-MPA were synthesised and purified for electrophysiological patch-clamp measurements with a Dynaflow system. The effects of MPA and tetrahydrodeoxycorticosterone were also studied. None of the studied MPA metabolites affected the responses mediated by α1β2γ2L or α5β3γ2L GABAA receptors. Contrary, MPA clearly acted both as a positive modulator and as a direct activator of the α5β3γ2L and α2β3γ2S GABAA receptors. However, in concentrations up to 10 μM, MPA was inactive at the α1β2γ2L GABAA receptor. In the patch-clamp recordings from dissociated cells of the preoptic area in rats, MPA increased the amplitude of responses to GABA. In addition, MPA alone without added GABA, evoked a current response. In conclusion, MPA acts as a positive modulator of specific GABAA receptor subtypes expressed in HEK cells and at native GABA receptors in single cells from the hypothalamic preoptic area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roshni Das
- Department of Integrative medical biology, Umeå University, SE-901 87 Umeå, Sweden; Umecrine AB, Norrlands University Hospital Umeå, Building 6 M 4th floor, Sweden
| | - Gianna Ragagnin
- Umeå Neurosteroid Research Center, Department of Clinical sciences, Umeå University, SE-901 85 Umeå, Sweden
| | - Jessica Sjöstedt
- Umeå Neurosteroid Research Center, Department of Clinical sciences, Umeå University, SE-901 85 Umeå, Sweden
| | - Maja Johansson
- Umeå Neurosteroid Research Center, Department of Clinical sciences, Umeå University, SE-901 85 Umeå, Sweden; Umecrine AB, Norrlands University Hospital Umeå, Building 6 M 4th floor, Sweden
| | - David Haage
- Umeå Neurosteroid Research Center, Department of Clinical sciences, Umeå University, SE-901 85 Umeå, Sweden; Department of Nursing Sciences, Mid Sweden University, Sundsvall, Sweden; Umecrine AB, Norrlands University Hospital Umeå, Building 6 M 4th floor, Sweden
| | - Michael Druzin
- Department of Integrative medical biology, Umeå University, SE-901 87 Umeå, Sweden
| | - Staffan Johansson
- Department of Integrative medical biology, Umeå University, SE-901 87 Umeå, Sweden
| | - Torbjörn Bäckström
- Umeå Neurosteroid Research Center, Department of Clinical sciences, Umeå University, SE-901 85 Umeå, Sweden; Umecrine AB, Norrlands University Hospital Umeå, Building 6 M 4th floor, Sweden.
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Voldřich J, Matoušová M, Šmídková M, Slavíková B, Chodounská H, Kudová E, Mertlíková-Kaiserová H. Identification of N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor antagonists using the rat postnatal mixed cortical and hippocampal neurons. Eur J Pharmacol 2022; 927:175056. [PMID: 35636520 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2022.175056] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Revised: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The goal of this study was to evaluate mixed cortical and hippocampal primary rat postnatal neuronal culture as in vitro tool for identification of N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) antagonists and to find out, whether this model is comparable with other commonly used primary rat neuronal models differing in their origin (pure cortical vs. mixed cortical and hippocampal) and differentiation state (embryonal vs. postnatal). Induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) - derived human glutamatergic neurons have been included in this study as well. First, the cultures were characterized by their neuron/astrocyte composition, the mRNA expression of NR2B/NR2A NMDAR subunit ratios, and the expression of glutamate transporters (GLT1, GLAST). Then, selected endogenous steroids and synthetic neuroactive steroids that have been previously identified as negative allosteric modulators of recombinant GluN1/GluN2B NMDA receptors, were evaluated for their ability to prevent an NMDA or glutamate-induced Ca2+ influx (acute effect) and excitotoxicity over 24 h. Though the neuroprotective potential against excitotoxic stimuli varied among the models studied, postnatal mixed cortical and hippocampal culture proved to be a convenient and robust tool for NMDAR antagonist screening. The most widely used embryonal (E18) cultures offered higher cell yields but at the expense of a higher sensitivity to compounds' cytotoxicity. iPSC-derived neurons were not found to be superior to rat cultures for screening purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Voldřich
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Flemingovo nam. 2, Prague 6 - Dejvice, 16610, Czech Republic; University of Chemistry and Technology, Technická 5, Prague 6 - Dejvice, 166 28, Czech Republic
| | - Marika Matoušová
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Flemingovo nam. 2, Prague 6 - Dejvice, 16610, Czech Republic
| | - Markéta Šmídková
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Flemingovo nam. 2, Prague 6 - Dejvice, 16610, Czech Republic
| | - Barbora Slavíková
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Flemingovo nam. 2, Prague 6 - Dejvice, 16610, Czech Republic
| | - Hana Chodounská
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Flemingovo nam. 2, Prague 6 - Dejvice, 16610, Czech Republic
| | - Eva Kudová
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Flemingovo nam. 2, Prague 6 - Dejvice, 16610, Czech Republic
| | - Helena Mertlíková-Kaiserová
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Flemingovo nam. 2, Prague 6 - Dejvice, 16610, Czech Republic.
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38
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Wang L, Covey DF, Akk G, Evers AS. Neurosteroid Modulation of GABA A Receptor Function by Independent Action at Multiple Specific Binding Sites. Curr Neuropharmacol 2022; 20:886-890. [PMID: 34856904 PMCID: PMC9881108 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x19666211202150041] [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] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2021] [Revised: 11/28/2021] [Accepted: 11/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurosteroids are endogenous modulators of GABAA receptors that mediate anxiety, pain, mood and arousal. The 3-hydroxyl epimers, allopregnanolone (3α-OH) and epiallopregnanolone (3β-OH) are both prevalent in the mammalian brain and produce opposite effects on GABAA receptor function, acting as positive and negative allosteric modulators, respectively. This Perspective provides a model to explain the actions of 3α-OH and 3β-OH neurosteroids. The model is based on evidence that the neurosteroid epimers bind to an overlapping subset of specific sites on GABAA receptors, with their net functional effect on channel gating being the sum of their independent effects at each site.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology (LW, DFC, GA, ASE),,Department of Anesthesiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Douglas F. Covey
- Department of Anesthesiology (LW, DFC, GA, ASE),,Department of Developmental Biology (Pharmacology);,Department of Psychiatry (DFC) and
| | - Gustav Akk
- Department of Anesthesiology (LW, DFC, GA, ASE),,The Taylor Institute for Innovative Psychiatric Research (DFC, GA, ASE), Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO63110; U.S.A
| | - Alex S. Evers
- Department of Anesthesiology (LW, DFC, GA, ASE),,Department of Developmental Biology (Pharmacology);,The Taylor Institute for Innovative Psychiatric Research (DFC, GA, ASE), Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO63110; U.S.A,Address correspondence to this author at the Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine, 660 S. Euclid Ave, Box # 8054, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA; Tel: +1 314-362-8557; E-mail:
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39
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Williams E, Chu C, DeMorrow S. A critical review of bile acids and their receptors in hepatic encephalopathy. Anal Biochem 2022; 643:114436. [PMID: 34715070 DOI: 10.1016/j.ab.2021.114436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2021] [Revised: 09/15/2021] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Hepatic encephalopathy describes an array of neurological complications that arise due to liver insufficiency. The pathogenesis of hepatic encephalopathy shares a longstanding association with hyperammonemia and inflammation, and recently, aberrant bile acid signaling has been implicated in the development of key features of hepatic encephalopathy. These key features include neuronal dysfunction, neuroinflammation and blood-brain barrier permeability. This review summarizes the findings of recent studies demonstrating a role for bile acids in the pathogenesis of hepatic encephalopathy via one of three main bile acid receptors and speculates on the possible downstream consequences of aberrant bile acid signaling.
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40
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Antonoudiou P, Colmers PLW, Walton NL, Weiss GL, Smith AC, Nguyen DP, Lewis M, Quirk MC, Barros L, Melon LC, Maguire JL. Allopregnanolone Mediates Affective Switching Through Modulation of Oscillatory States in the Basolateral Amygdala. Biol Psychiatry 2022; 91:283-293. [PMID: 34561029 PMCID: PMC8714669 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2021.07.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [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: 03/10/2021] [Revised: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Brexanolone (allopregnanolone) was recently approved by the Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of postpartum depression, demonstrating long-lasting antidepressant effects. Despite our understanding of the mechanism of action of neurosteroids as positive allosteric modulators of GABAA (gamma-aminobutyric acid A) receptors, we still do not fully understand how allopregnanolone exerts persistent antidepressant effects. METHODS We used electroencephalogram recordings in rats and humans along with local field potential, functional magnetic resonance imaging, and behavioral tests in mice to assess the impact of neurosteroids on network states in brain regions implicated in mood and used optogenetic manipulations to directly examine their relationship to behavioral states. RESULTS We demonstrated that allopregnanolone and synthetic neuroactive steroid analogs with molecular pharmacology similar to allopregnanolone (SGE-516 [tool compound] and zuranolone [SAGE-217, investigational compound]) modulate oscillations across species. We further demonstrated a critical role for interneurons in generating oscillations in the basolateral amygdala (BLA) and a role for δ-containing GABAA receptors in mediating the ability of neurosteroids to modulate network and behavioral states. Allopregnanolone in the BLA enhances BLA high theta oscillations (6-12 Hz) through δ-containing GABAA receptors, a mechanism distinct from other GABAA positive allosteric modulators, such as benzodiazepines, and alters behavioral states. Treatment with the allopregnanolone analog SGE-516 protects mice from chronic stress-induced disruption of network and behavioral states, which is correlated with the modulation of theta oscillations in the BLA. Optogenetic manipulation of the network state influences the behavioral state after chronic unpredictable stress. CONCLUSIONS Our findings demonstrate a novel molecular and cellular mechanism mediating the well-established anxiolytic and antidepressant effects of neuroactive steroids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pantelis Antonoudiou
- Department of Neuroscience, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, 02111, USA
| | - Phillip LW Colmers
- Department of Neuroscience, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, 02111, USA
| | - Najah L Walton
- Department of Neuroscience, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, 02111, USA
| | - Grant L Weiss
- Department of Neuroscience, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, 02111, USA
| | - Anne C Smith
- Sage Therapeutics, Inc., Cambridge, Massachusetts, 02142, USA
| | - David P Nguyen
- Sage Therapeutics, Inc., Cambridge, Massachusetts, 02142, USA
| | - Mike Lewis
- Sage Therapeutics, Inc., Cambridge, Massachusetts, 02142, USA
| | - Michael C Quirk
- Sage Therapeutics, Inc., Cambridge, Massachusetts, 02142, USA
| | - Lea Barros
- Department of Neuroscience, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, 02111, USA,Department of Biology, Hamilton College, Clinton, NY. 13323, United States
| | - Laverne C Melon
- Department of Biology, Wesleyan University, Middletown, Connecticut, 06459, USA
| | - Jamie L Maguire
- Department of Neuroscience, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts.
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Bloms-Funke P, Bankstahl M, Bankstahl J, Kneip C, Schröder W, Löscher W. The novel dual-mechanism Kv7 potassium channel/TSPO receptor activator GRT-X is more effective than the Kv7 channel opener retigabine in the 6-Hz refractory seizure mouse model. Neuropharmacology 2022; 203:108884. [PMID: 34785163 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2021.108884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [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: 06/28/2021] [Revised: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Epilepsy, one of the most common and most disabling neurological disorders, is characterized by spontaneous recurrent seizures, often associated with structural brain alterations and cognitive and psychiatric comorbidities. In about 30% of patients, the seizures are resistant to current treatments; so more effective treatments are urgently needed. Among the ∼30 clinically approved antiseizure drugs, retigabine (ezogabine) is the only drug that acts as a positive allosteric modulator (or opener) of voltage-gated Kv7 potassium channels, which is particularly interesting for some genetic forms of epilepsy. Here we describe a novel dual-mode-of-action compound, GRT-X (N-[(3-fluorophenyl)-methyl]-1-(2-methoxyethyl)-4-methyl-2-oxo-(7-trifluoromethyl)-1H-quinoline-3-carboxylic acid amide) that activates both Kv7 potassium channels and the mitochondrial translocator protein 18 kDa (TSPO), leading to increased synthesis of brain neurosteroids. TSPO activators are known to exert anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, anxiolytic, and antidepressive effects, which, together with an antiseizure effect (mediated by Kv7 channels), would be highly relevant for the treatment of epilepsy. This prompted us to compare the antiseizure efficacy of retigabine and GRT-X in six mouse and rat models of epileptic seizures, including the 6-Hz model of difficult-to-treat focal seizures. Furthermore, the tolerability of the two compounds was compared in mice and rats. Potency comparisons were based on both doses and peak plasma concentrations. Overall, GRT-X was more effective than retigabine in three of the six seizure models used here, the most important difference being the high efficacy in the 6-Hz (32 mA) seizure model in mice. Based on drug plasma levels, GRT-X was at least 30 times more potent than retigabine in the latter model. These data indicate that GRT-X is a highly interesting novel anti-seizure drug with a unique (first-in-class) dual-mode mechanism of action.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marion Bankstahl
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology, and Pharmacy, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Germany; Center for Systems Neuroscience, Hannover, Germany
| | - Jens Bankstahl
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology, and Pharmacy, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Germany
| | | | | | - Wolfgang Löscher
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology, and Pharmacy, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Germany; Center for Systems Neuroscience, Hannover, Germany.
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Bogus K, Żarczyńska M, Pałasz A, Suszka-Świtek A, Worthington JJ, Krzystanek M, Żarczyński P. Antipsychotics increase steroidogenic enzyme gene expression in the rat brainstem. Mol Biol Rep 2021. [PMID: 34797492 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-021-06943-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [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: 08/04/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
Background Neurosteroids are involved in several important brain functions and have recently been considered novel players in the mechanic actions of neuropsychiatric drugs. There are no reports of murine studies focusing on the effect of chronic neurosteroid treatment in parallel with antipsychotics on key steroidogenic enzyme expression and we therefore focused on steroidogenic enzyme gene expression in the brainstem of rats chronically treated with olanzapine and haloperidol. Methods and results Studies were carried out on adult, male Sprague–Dawley rats which were divided into 3 groups: control and experimental animals treated with olanzapine or haloperidol. Total mRNA was isolated from homogenized brainstem samples for RealTime-PCR to estimate gene expression of related aromatase, 3β-HSD and P450scc. Long-term treatment with the selected antipsychotics was reflected in the modulation of steroidogenic enzyme gene expression in the examined brainstem region; with both olanzapine and haloperidol increasing aromatase, 3β-HSD and P450scc gene expression. Conclusions The present findings shed new light on the pharmacology of antipsychotics and suggest the existence of possible regulatory interplay between neuroleptic action and steroidogenesis at the level of brainstem neuronal centres.
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Misztal T, Młotkowska P, Marciniak E, Roszkowicz-Ostrowska K, Misztal A. Involvement of neurosteroids in the control of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis activity in pregnant sheep under basal and stressful conditions. Theriogenology 2021; 174:114-120. [PMID: 34428676 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2021.08.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2021] [Revised: 08/17/2021] [Accepted: 08/19/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Neurosteroids are synthesized locally in the brain, where they can modify neuronal functionality depending on the physiological state. A high correlation was demonstrated between the increasing activity of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and allopregnanolone (AL) concentration in the cerebrospinal fluid in sheep during pregnancy. Therefore, the present study tested the hypothesis that blocking neurosteroid synthesis in the brain of a pregnant sheep would affect HPA axis activity under both basal and stressful conditions. Two groups of sheep in the fourth month of gestation (n = 7 each) were subjected to the following treatments: 1) intracerebroventricular (icv) infusion of vehicle for three days (C) and then icv infusion of finasteride (a total of 100 μg/240 μL/day) for three days (F), one week apart, and 2) icv infusion of vehicle for three days and application of stressful stimuli (isolation and partial movement restriction) on the third day (S), and subsequently icv infusion of finasteride for three days and application of stressful stimuli on the third day (SF), one week apart. On the third days of the experiment, a 4-h push-pull perfusion of the infundibular nucleus/median eminence and blood sampling were performed. Mean perfusate corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH), plasma adrenocorticotropin (ACTH) and cortisol concentrations were significantly higher in sheep treated with finasteride, stress and finasteride in combination with stress compared to controls. The highest hormone concentrations in Groups F, S and SF, were recorded during the first 60 min; however, significant increases in CRH and ACTH levels were observed in Group SF towards the end of the experiment. It can be concluded that neurosteroids may be an essential component of the mechanism controlling HPA axis activity in pregnant sheep, not only under stress-free conditions, but more importantly, also by inhibiting the neuroendocrine response to stressors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomasz Misztal
- Department of Animal Physiology, The Kielanowski Institute of Animal Physiology and Nutrition, Polish Academy of Sciences, Instytucka 3 St, 05-110, Jablonna, Poland.
| | - Patrycja Młotkowska
- Department of Animal Physiology, The Kielanowski Institute of Animal Physiology and Nutrition, Polish Academy of Sciences, Instytucka 3 St, 05-110, Jablonna, Poland
| | - Elżbieta Marciniak
- Department of Animal Physiology, The Kielanowski Institute of Animal Physiology and Nutrition, Polish Academy of Sciences, Instytucka 3 St, 05-110, Jablonna, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Roszkowicz-Ostrowska
- Department of Animal Physiology, The Kielanowski Institute of Animal Physiology and Nutrition, Polish Academy of Sciences, Instytucka 3 St, 05-110, Jablonna, Poland
| | - Anna Misztal
- Department of Animal Physiology, The Kielanowski Institute of Animal Physiology and Nutrition, Polish Academy of Sciences, Instytucka 3 St, 05-110, Jablonna, Poland
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Garris J, Quigg M. The female Tourette patient: Sex differences in Tourette Disorder. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2021; 129:261-268. [PMID: 34364945 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2021.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2021] [Revised: 07/07/2021] [Accepted: 08/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Tourette Disorder (TD) is a male predominant neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by tics and frequent psychiatric comorbidities. Girls with TD have later peak symptoms, less remission with age, and worse impairment from tics, particularly in adulthood. Female TD patients are less likely to have Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and more likely to have anxiety and mood disorders. Hyperandrogenism is associated with TD in both sexes, and neuroanatomic sexual dimorphism is reduced in adult TD patients. Some women report catamenial tics, which may relate to estrogen withdrawal or rises in allopregnanolone. Limited data suggest that several neuroanatomic alterations present in boys with TD are not present in girls with TD. Female sex predicts better response to haloperidol. Further research into female tic pathophysiology may influence sex-specific treatment development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordan Garris
- Department of Neurology, University of Virginia, Box 800394, Charlottesville, VA 22908-0394, United States; Department of Pediatrics, University of Virginia, United States.
| | - Mark Quigg
- Department of Neurology, University of Virginia, Box 800394, Charlottesville, VA 22908-0394, United States
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Mayne G, De Bloois E, Dabelea D, Christians U. Development and validation of an LC-MS/MS assay for the quantification of allopregnanolone and its progesterone-derived isomers, precursors, and cortisol/cortisone in pregnancy. Anal Bioanal Chem 2021. [PMID: 34279681 DOI: 10.1007/s00216-021-03523-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2021] [Revised: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 06/30/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Neuroactive steroids are potent neuromodulators that play a critical role in both maternal and fetal health during pregnancy. These stress-responsive compounds are reportedly low in women with perinatal depression and may be associated with poor pregnancy outcomes in animal models. Chronic stress is a risk factor for adverse birth outcomes. Simultaneous quantification of neuroactive steroids, in combination with stress hormones cortisol/cortisone, provides an opportunity to investigate the synergistic relationship of these analytes within the convenience of one assay. A simple, reliable, and sensitive method for quantifying these endogenous compounds is necessary for further research with the potential to advance clinical diagnostic tools during pregnancy. Analytes were extracted from serum with a simple protein precipitation using methanol and then separated and quantified using high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS). After online extraction, analytes were separated using an Agilent Poroschell 120, 50 × 4.6 mm, 2.7 μm particle size, EC-C18 analytical column. The reliable quantification range was from 0.78 to 1000 ng/mL. QC sample inter- and intraday trueness was between 90 and 110% while inter- and intraday imprecision was less than 10%. Extracted samples were stable up to 7 days at 4 °C and extraction recovery was above 95%. Serum samples from 54 women in pregnancy were analyzed using this method. Here, we provide a validated, fast, and specific assay with sufficient sensitivity that allows for simultaneous quantification of blood serum concentrations of allopregnanolone (3α-hydroxy-5α-pregnan-20-one), pregnanolone (3α-hydroxy-5β-pregnan-20-one), epipregnanolone (3β-hydroxy-5β-pregnan-20-one), pregnenolone, progesterone, cortisol, and cortisone in pregnancy for clinical study samples and clinical diagnostics.
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Howell S, Song W, Pastuszak A, Khera M. Differential Gene Expression in Post-Finasteride Syndrome Patients. J Sex Med 2021; 18:1479-1490. [PMID: 37057444 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2021.05.009] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2021] [Revised: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 05/14/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND An organic etiology underpinning post-finasteride syndrome, a constellation of persistent sexual, neuropsychiatric, and somatic symptoms reported by men exposed to 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors (5ARIs), is debated. Persistent changes in neurosteroid levels or androgen receptor expression have been implicated. AIM To determine whether differences in gene expression, especially in relevant biologic pathways, exist between patients reporting post-finasteride syndrome symptoms and healthy controls. METHODS This was a single center, prospective case-control study taking place between March 2013 and September 2018. Men 18 years and older being evaluated for sexual dysfunction (study) or circumcision (control) were eligible for inclusion. Twenty-six men with a history of 5ARI use reporting symptoms consistent with post-finasteride syndrome were included in the patient group. Twenty-six men consented to inclusion in the control group. OUTCOMES The primary outcome measure is gene expression data for genes affecting neurosteroid levels and androgen receptor activity from penile skin cells. RESULTS Gene expression of cells from penile skin samples from twenty-six men of median age 38 years (IQR, 33-42) in the study group was compared with that from twenty-six men of median age 41 years (IQR, 35-62) in the control group (P = .13), with 1,446 genes significantly over-expressed and 2,318 genes significantly under-expressed in study patients. Androgen receptor expression was significantly higher in study patients compared to controls (9.961 vs 9.494, adjusted P value = .01). Serum levels of androgen receptor activity markers 5α-androstanediol (0.950 ng/mL [0.749-1.587] vs 0.949 [0.817-1.337], P = .34) or 3α-androstanedione (3.1 ng/mL [1.925-5.475] vs 6.7 [3.375-11.4], P = .31) revealed no significant differences. No significant differences were found between the number of trinucleotide repeats (21.5 [20-23.75], 22 [19-25], P = .94). CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS In this study we present evidence of gene expression correlating with observed biologic differences in patients with post-finasteride syndrome; providers who prescribe 5ARIs should be aware and advise their patients accordingly. STRENGTHS & LIMITATIONS Strengths of this study include the evaluation of multiple proposed etiologies for post-finasteride syndrome. The study is also strengthened by the fact that not all data matched the initial hypotheses, qualifying the argument for the existence of PFS. Limitations include potential selection bias arising from more severe phenotypes seeking care; lack of gene expression data prior to 5ARI exposure; lack of non-penile tissue samples supposedly involved; and a lack of mechanistic data to imply causality. CONCLUSION This study is the first to consider and demonstrate gene expression differences in patients with PFS as a potential etiology of sexual dysfunction. Howell S, Song W, Pastuszak A, et al. Differential Gene Expression in Post-Finasteride Syndrome Patients. J Sex Med 2021;18:1479-1490.
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Affiliation(s)
- Skyler Howell
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Texas McGovern Medical School at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Weitao Song
- Scott Department of Urology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Alexander Pastuszak
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Mohit Khera
- Scott Department of Urology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.
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Qian B, Zen Z, Zheng Z, Wang C, Song J. A preliminary study on the mechanism of the neurosteroid-mediated ionotropic receptor dysfunction in neurodevelopmental toxicity induced by decabromodiphenyl ether. Ecotoxicol Environ Saf 2021; 217:112198. [PMID: 33862428 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2021.112198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2020] [Revised: 03/19/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The mechanism of neurodevelopmental toxicity of decabromodiphenyl ether (BDE209) remains unclear. Recent evidence suggests that neurosteroids disorders play a vital role in BDE209 induced-neurodevelopmental toxicity. To explore the mechanism of it, pregnant ICR mice were orally gavaged with 0, 225, and 900 mg kg-1 BDE209 for about 42 days. Spatial learning and memory abilities of offspring were tested on postnatal day (PND) 21. Offspring were euthanized at PND26, the neuronal structure, neurosteroids level, and related proteins including neurosteroids synthase, ionotropic receptors and cAMP-response element binding protein (CREB) pathway were evaluated, as well as Ca2+ concentration and the mitochondrial membrane potential (Mmp). Our results showed that BDE209 impaired learning and memory abilities and disrupted neuronal structure. Meanwhile, BDE209 decreased the pregnenolone (PREG), dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), progesterone (PROG) and allopregnanolone (ALLO) levels in the serum and brain, as well as the mRNA and protein levels of cholesterol-side-chain cleavage enzyme (P450scc), steroid 17α-hy-droxylase (P450C17), 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3β-HSD) and steroid 5α-reductase of type I (5α-R) in the hippocampi. Also, BDE209 suppressed mRNA and protein levels of NR1, NR2A and NR2B subunits of the N-methyl-D-aspartic acid receptor (NMDAR) and α1 subunit of the Gamma-amino butyric acid A receptor (GABAAR), but increased the levels of β2 and γ2 subunits of the GABAAR in the hippocampi. Moreover, BDE209 increased the Ca2+ concentration and phosphorylation extracellular regulated protein kinases (P-ERK) 1/2 level, but decreased the P-CREB and Mmp level in the hippocampi. These results indicate that BDE209 exposure during pregnancy and lactation is possible to affect learning and memory formation of offspring by the neurosteroid-mediated ionotropic receptors dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Qian
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, People's Republic of China; Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, Guangxi 541004, People's Republic of China; Guangxi Colleges and University Key Laboratory of Preventive Medicine, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, Guangxi 541004, People's Republic of China
| | - Zeng Zen
- Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, Guangxi 541004, People's Republic of China; Guangxi Colleges and University Key Laboratory of Preventive Medicine, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, Guangxi 541004, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhaoxuan Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, People's Republic of China
| | - Chengqiang Wang
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, Guangxi 541004, People's Republic of China; Guangxi Colleges and University Key Laboratory of Preventive Medicine, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, Guangxi 541004, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiale Song
- Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, Guangxi 541004, People's Republic of China; Guangxi Colleges and University Key Laboratory of Preventive Medicine, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, Guangxi 541004, People's Republic of China.
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Lin YC, Papadopoulos V. Neurosteroidogenic enzymes: CYP11A1 in the central nervous system. Front Neuroendocrinol 2021; 62:100925. [PMID: 34015388 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2021.100925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2021] [Revised: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 05/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Neurosteroids, steroid hormones synthesized locally in the nervous system, have important neuromodulatory and neuroprotective effects in the central nervous system. Progress in neurosteroid research has led to the successful translation of allopregnanolone into an approved therapy for postpartum depression. However, there is insufficient evidence to support the assumption that steroidogenesis is exactly the same between the nervous system and the periphery. This review focuses on CYP11A1, the only enzyme currently known to catalyze the first reaction in steroidogenesis to produce pregnenolone, the precursor to all other steroids. Although CYP11A1 mRNA has been found in brain of many mammals, the presence of CYP11A1 protein has been difficult to detect, particularly in humans. Here, we highlight the discrepancies in the current evidence for CYP11A1 in the central nervous system and propose new directions for understanding neurosteroidogenesis, which will be crucial for developing neurosteroid-based therapies for the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiqi Christina Lin
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Vassilios Papadopoulos
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States.
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Chu L, Huang Y, Xu Y, Wang LK, Lu Q. An LC-APCI +-MS/MS-based method for determining the concentration of neurosteroids in the brain of male mice with different gut microbiota. J Neurosci Methods 2021; 360:109268. [PMID: 34171313 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneumeth.2021.109268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2021] [Revised: 06/14/2021] [Accepted: 06/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although the interaction between the gut microbiota and central nervous system (CNS) is well-known, the effects of gut microbiota on different brain regions remain obscure. NEW METHOD In present study, we developed a simple and sensitive high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry with atmospheric pressure chemical ionization in positive mode (LC-APCI+-MS/MS) for simultaneous detection of 12 analytes in the rodent' brain with different housing conditions RESULTS: The results showed that male mice in XZ group had significantly higher brain levels of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), androstenedione (A4), testosterone (T), progesterone (P), corticosterone (CORT), aldosterone (ALD) and 11-dehydrocorticosterone (11-DHC) than those in SPF group. CORT level was higher in the left prefrontal cortex, whereas ALD and 11-DHC levels were higher in the left hypothalamus than in the right symmetrical areas in both groups. DHEA and CORT levels were highest in the striatum than in the prefrontal cortex, hippocampus, hypothalamus, regardless of the region and group (XZ and SPF). COMPARISON WITH EXISTING METHODS These results demonstrated that the method developed in this study provides, for the first time, direct quantitation of neurosteroids in male mice brain. CONCLUSIONS DHEA levels showed a left-lateralized pattern in the hippocampus and hypothalamus. Mice in the XZ group showed significantly elevated levels of CORT and/or its metabolites, ALD and 11-DHC in brain than mice in the SPF group. Insanitation living conditions increased more diverse gut microbiota.
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Standeven LR, Olson E, Leistikow N, Payne JL, Osborne LM, Hantsoo L. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, Affective Symptoms, and Neuroactive Steroids: a Focus on Allopregnanolone. Curr Psychiatry Rep 2021; 23:36. [PMID: 33881645 PMCID: PMC8060230 DOI: 10.1007/s11920-021-01244-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW To provide an overview of existing studies on alterations in gonadal and neuroactive steroids (NASs) and mood symptoms among women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). RECENT FINDINGS Recent studies have demonstrated a previously underappreciated association between PCOS and comorbid depression and anxiety. However, most studies on affective symptoms among women with PCOS have been cross-sectional, limiting our knowledge about fluctuations in symptoms over the menstrual cycle and reproductive lifespan for women with PCOS, as well as the potential interplay between NAS alterations and mood symptoms. Changes in the NAS allopregnanolone (ALLO) have been implicated in several reproductive-related psychiatric disorders (e.g., premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) and postpartum depression (PPD)) as well as in normal reproductive functioning, warranting further investigation for its potential role in the psychiatric symptoms observed in women with PCOS. Prospective studies evaluating associations between psychiatric symptoms and NAS are needed to elucidate the biological causes of the increased rates of psychiatric symptoms among women with PCOS and inform clinical treatment. ALLO, with its role in normal reproductive function, menstrual dysregulation among women with PCOS, and reproductive-related psychiatric conditions, makes it a particularly intriguing candidate for future investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsay R Standeven
- Women's Mood Disorders Center, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | - Elizabeth Olson
- School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Nicole Leistikow
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Jennifer L Payne
- Women's Mood Disorders Center, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Lauren M Osborne
- Women's Mood Disorders Center, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Liisa Hantsoo
- Women's Mood Disorders Center, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
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